Ozzie Newsome Jr. was born on March 16, 1956, in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where he grew up and began playing football at an early age. Excelling in high school, he attracted attention for his athletic abilities and went on to play at the University of Alabama. Newsome started all four years and contributed to 42 team victories. Over his college career, he caught more than 100 passes and scored 16 touchdowns. In 1977, he earned a spot on the All-America Team and was later named Alabama Player of the Decade for the 1970s.
The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft. Playing as a tight end, he was named to the Pro Bowl three times. He concluded his playing career with 662 receptions, 7,980 receiving yards, and 47 touchdowns, setting the record for the most receiving yards by an NFL tight end at that time.
Following his retirement, Newsome joined the Browns’ front office. When the franchise relocated and became the Baltimore Ravens in 1996, he remained with the organization and was appointed its first general manager, becoming the NFL’s first African-American general manager. Under his leadership, the Ravens secured two Super Bowl championships.
Newsome was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999, his first year of eligibility. He has also received multiple honors recognizing his leadership and service.
His roots in Muscle Shoals played a significant role in shaping his successful career. Newsome’s accomplishments on and off the field are well recognized, and his connection to his hometown remains an important part of his legacy.
