Bob Gain

Bob Gain was one of the best and one of the most accomplished defensive linemen of his era during his twelve-season NFL career with the Cleveland Browns.

Known for his toughness, strength, and versatility, Gain helped anchor a Browns defense that played a crucial role in the team’s success throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. A five-time Pro Bowler and seven-time second-team All-Pro selection, Gain was a key contributor to Cleveland’s 1954 NFL Championship team. Gain was a three-time NFL Champion as he played in six NFL title games during his career while winning the NFL Championship in 1954, 1955, and 1964 . His consistent excellence and leadership on the field helped define the Browns’ defense during one of the franchise’s most successful periods.

Born in Akron, Ohio, and raised in Weirton, West Virginia, Gain starred at Weir High School before earning a scholarship to the University of Kentucky. At Kentucky, Gain emerged as one of the nation’s top linemen under legendary coach Bear Bryant. He played both offense and defense and was a consensus All-American in 1950.

In 1950, Gain won the Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation’s best interior lineman, becoming the first player in Southeastern Conference (SEC) history to receive the honor. That same year, he helped lead Kentucky to its first-ever bowl victory, defeating the #1 ranked Oklahoma Sooners in the Sugar Bowl. Gain’s impact at Kentucky would later earn him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame.

Selected by the Browns 5th overall in the first round of the 1951 NFL Draft, Gain initially delayed his NFL debut, spending one season playing professionally in Canada. He joined the Browns in 1952 and quickly became an integral part of Paul Brown’s dominant teams.

In addition to his football career, Gain served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, missing the 1953 NFL season. Upon his return, he continued to be a disruptive presence on the defensive line, known for his ability to penetrate the backfield and pressure quarterbacks. His combination of size, speed, and football intelligence made him one of the best linemen in the game.

After retiring from the NFL in 1964, Gain remained closely connected to the game and his alma mater. He was inducted into the University of Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame, and the Cleveland Browns Legends program.

Bob Gain passed away on November 14, 2016 at the age of 87.

Images from the Cleveland Browns and Topps Trading Cards 1963.
Biography by John T. Broome.