Lawrence McCutcheon, Rams Running Back and Executive, Dies at 76
Five-time Pro Bowler Lawrence McCutcheon, a cornerstone of the Rams' dynasty and a longtime team executive, passed away Friday after a battle with Parkinson's disease.
Lawrence "Clutch" McCutcheon, a five-time Pro Bowl running back who was instrumental in the Los Angeles Rams' successful era and later served the organization for over three decades, died on Friday, October 23. He was 76. McCutcheon passed away surrounded by family after a prolonged fight with Parkinson's disease.
Drafted by the Rams in the third round of the 1972 NFL Draft out of Colorado State, McCutcheon became a key figure under head coach Chuck Knox, whose run-heavy offensive strategy earned him the nickname "Ground Chuck." With the support of Pro Football Hall of Famer Tom Mack on the offensive line, McCutcheon anchored the Rams' offense, helping transform the team into consistent contenders.
During his playing career with the Rams, McCutcheon achieved significant milestones. He surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in four separate seasons and earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1973 to 1977. His contributions were vital to the Rams' postseason appearances in each of his final seven seasons with the franchise. At the time of his departure, McCutcheon held the record as the Rams' all-time leading rusher.
McCutcheon played his final game in the Super Bowl XIV, where he scored a 24-yard touchdown pass on a trick play against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although the Rams lost the game 31-19, his indelible mark on the franchise was already secured.
Following his playing career, which included stints with the Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks, and Buffalo Bills, McCutcheon returned to the Rams organization. He dedicated more than 32 years to the team's front office, serving as a scout and personnel executive. The Rams organization noted his extensive impact, stating that "his legacy is woven into the fabric of our team."
McCutcheon's family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's research. This request comes shortly after it was announced that another legendary Rams running back, Marshall Faulk, had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.