Norris Brown, a standout tight end for the 1980 national champion Georgia Bulldogs football team, has died at the age of 65.
Brown passed away on Friday, July 31, according to GoLaurens.com. He began his collegiate career in 1979, contributing to three consecutive SEC titles from 1980 to 1982 under head coach Vince Dooley. The 1980 season culminated in a perfect 12-0 record for the Bulldogs, who secured their second national championship in program history with a Sugar Bowl victory over Notre Dame.
During the 1980 championship season, Brown recorded 12 receptions for 253 yards and two touchdowns. He concluded his career at Georgia with 44 catches for 832 yards and 10 touchdowns. He played alongside notable teammates, including Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker.
Buck Belue, Brown's quarterback during the undefeated season, shared his condolences on social media, remembering Brown as a "talented & skilled athlete & a wonderful teammate."
After his time with the Bulldogs, Brown was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the eighth round of the 1983 NFL Draft. He played in two games for the Vikings before continuing his professional career in the USFL with the New Jersey Generals and the Jacksonville Bulls, concluding his playing days in 1985. No cause of death was listed in his obituary.