OJ Simpson, a record-setting NFL running back, but more well-known for his infamous 1995 trial for the murders of his estranged wife and her friend.
“O.J. Simpson was the first player to reach a rushing mark many thought could not be attained in a 14-game season when he topped 2,000 yards,” said Jim Porter, president of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. “His on-field contributions will be preserved in the Hall’s archives in Canton, Ohio.”
Simpson was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985, his first year of eligibility.
Ending his pro career with 11,236 rushing yards, 2,142 receiving yards and 990 kick return yards, Simpson totaled 14,368 all-purpose yards in 135 games. Simpson scored 76 total touchdowns (61 rushing, 14 receiving and one via kick return).
In 1973, Simpson ran for 2,003 yards, getting the final 200 on 34 carries on a blustery, season-ending day at Shea Stadium against the New York Jets. He broke Jim Brown’s single-season rushing record (1,863 yards) that had stood for a decade, and his 143.1 rushing yards per game that season remains the highest mark in league history.
He was named the league MVP by all of the top media outlets and also won the Bert Bell Award.