In his NFL career, Braxton played in 90 games and gained 2,890 yards on the ground. He carried the football 741 different times to the tune of 3.9 yards per attempt. He rushed for 32.1 yds per game and got into the endzone 25 different times while carrying the ball. Braxton coughed up the ball 0 times in his career.
Braxton rushed for 0 yards carrying the ball in 0 games played in his final season. His average yds per carry was at 0.0 and he carried the ball 0 times in his last season. He ran for 0 touchdowns in his last season for 0 yds. Braxton averaged 0.0 yds on the ground per game. Jim Braxton was a formidable force on the football field, known for his powerful runs and remarkable versatility. As an NFL running back, Braxton left an indelible mark on the sport, earning the admiration of fans and teammates alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at his impressive career, his impact on the game, and his legacy in the NFL.
Early Life and College Career
Jim Braxton was born on May 23, 1949, in Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for sports, particularly football. His passion and dedication to the game were evident during his high school years, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete.
College Football at West Virginia University
Braxton’s football journey continued at West Virginia University (WVU), where he played college football from 1967 to 1970. During his time at WVU, he quickly gained a reputation as a versatile player who could contribute both as a running back and a fullback. His ability to block, catch passes, and run with power made him a valuable asset to the team.
One of Braxton’s standout moments in college came during the 1969 Peach Bowl, where he played a crucial role in leading WVU to a victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks. His impressive performance on the field caught the attention of NFL scouts, paving the way for his professional career.
NFL Career
Drafted by the Buffalo Bills
In 1971, Jim Braxton’s NFL dreams became a reality when he was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the NFL Draft. He joined a team that was in the midst of rebuilding, and his arrival marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the franchise.
Partnering with O.J. Simpson
One of the defining aspects of Braxton’s NFL career was his partnership with Hall of Fame running back O.J. Simpson. Braxton’s ability to block and create running lanes for Simpson was instrumental in Simpson’s success on the field. Together, they formed a dynamic duo that struck fear into the hearts of opposing defenses.
Braxton’s unselfish play and willingness to take on the tough tasks allowed Simpson to shine, and the two players developed a strong bond both on and off the field. Their partnership was a key factor in the Buffalo Bills’ offensive success during the early 1970s.
Career Highlights and Achievements
During his time with the Buffalo Bills, Jim Braxton became known for his hard-nosed running style and his ability to deliver in clutch situations. Some of his career highlights include:
Rushing for over 500 yards in the 1973 season
Scoring 4 touchdowns in a single game against the New England Patriots in 1974
Helping lead the Bills to the playoffs in 1974, where they faced off against the Pittsburgh Steelers
Braxton’s contributions to the team were recognized by both fans and analysts, earning him a reputation as one of the most reliable players on the roster.
Life After Football
After retiring from professional football in 1978, Jim Braxton remained active in the sports community. He dedicated his time to mentoring young athletes and sharing his knowledge and experiences with the next generation of football players.
Legacy and Impact
Jim Braxton’s legacy in the NFL extends beyond his statistics and on-field achievements. He was a player who exemplified teamwork, dedication, and resilience. His partnership with O.J. Simpson is often remembered as one of the most successful running back tandems in NFL history.
Braxton’s contributions to the game continue to inspire current and future players, and his impact on the sport is still felt today. Whether it was his powerful runs, his blocking prowess, or his leadership qualities, Jim Braxton left an enduring legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Remembering Jim Braxton
Sadly, Jim Braxton passed away on July 28, 1986, at the young age of 37. His untimely death was a profound loss to the football community, but his memory lives on through the countless lives he touched both on and off the field.
As we remember Jim Braxton and his remarkable NFL career, we celebrate his contributions to the game and the indelible mark he left on the sport. His story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the enduring impact of a dedicated athlete.
In conclusion, Jim Braxton was more than just an NFL running back; he was a true sportsman whose passion for the game and commitment to excellence left a lasting legacy. His career serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to make their mark in the world of professional sports.