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Robert Brazile
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Robert Lorenzo Brazile Jr. (born February 7, 1953), nicknamed "Dr. Doom", is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). Brazile played from 1975 to 1984 for the Houston Oilers and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.
Key Information
Professional career
[edit]Brazile was taken with the sixth pick of the first round of the 1975 NFL draft. It was part of the bounty Sid Gillman acquired along with Curley Culp when he traded John Matuszak to the Kansas City Chiefs. However, it would be new head coach/general manager Bum Phillips who made the selection.[1]
Phillips' arrival in Houston also brought a change in the base defense the Oilers ran, switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4. The 3–4 would prove to be a perfect fit for Brazile's combination of size (6'4", 230 lbs) and great speed. While most cite Lawrence Taylor as the prototype of the pass-rushing outside linebacker in the NFL,[2] there are some, including Phillips, who say Brazile was the one who first made the 3–4 popular for sending an outside linebacker to rush the quarterback.[3] Brazile also performed well in pass coverage and against the run, consistently ranking at or near the top for the team lead in tackles even though opponents often avoided his side of the field.[4]
Brazile found immediate success with the Oilers, winning the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year award for the 1975 season. He was named to the Pro Bowl seven straight seasons, was All-Pro five straight seasons (1976–80),[5] and was selected to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1970s. In 1978 and 1979, Brazile was a key member of Oilers teams that went to back-to-back AFC Championship Games.
After a third straight postseason loss in 1980, Phillips was fired by Oilers owner Bud Adams and the team entered a period of steep decline. The constant losing wore on Brazile and caused him to contemplate retiring.[6] However, he has said it was the death of his first wife, Cookie, in a car wreck in Houston in 1984, that made the decision for him.[7]
Officially, Brazile finished his career with 11 quarterback sacks. Unofficially, his career sack total is 48 (sacks did not become an official NFL statistic until 1982).[8] He is also credited with 1,281 tackles, the second highest total in Houston Oilers / Tennessee Titans history.[9]
On August 24, 2017, Brazile and former Green Bay Packers guard Jerry Kramer were named as seniors committee finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2018.[10] He was announced as member of the class of 2018 on February 3, 2018. Robert Brazile was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, August 4, 2018, and his bust was sculpted by Scott Myers.

On October 14, 2018, Brazile was inducted to the Titans-Oilers Ring of Honor.[11]
NFL career statistics
[edit]| Legend | |
|---|---|
| Bold | Career high |
Regular season
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Sck | Interceptions | Fumbles | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Int | Yds | Y/I | Lng | TD | FR | Yds | Y/F | TD | |||
| 1975 | HOU | 14 | 14 | 7.0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 5 | 18 | 3.6 | 0 |
| 1976 | HOU | 14 | 14 | 6.5 | 1 | 8 | 8.0 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 1977 | HOU | 14 | 14 | 5.0 | 3 | 40 | 13.3 | 16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 |
| 1978 | HOU | 16 | 16 | 5.0 | 1 | 30 | 30.0 | 30 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 |
| 1979 | HOU | 16 | 16 | 5.0 | 2 | 45 | 22.5 | 26 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 1980 | HOU | 16 | 16 | 6.5 | 2 | 38 | 19.0 | 33 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 |
| 1981 | HOU | 16 | 16 | 2.0 | 2 | 7 | 3.5 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 |
| 1982 | HOU | 9 | 9 | 6.5 | 1 | 31 | 31.0 | 31 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 1983 | HOU | 16 | 16 | 2.5 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 1984 | HOU | 16 | 16 | 2.0 | 1 | 2 | 2.0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| Career | 147 | 147 | 48.0 | 13 | 201 | 15.5 | 33 | 0 | 14 | 18 | 1.3 | 0 | |
Postseason
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Sck | Fumbles | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | FR | Yds | Y/F | TD | |||
| 1978 | HOU | 3 | 3 | 1.0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 1979 | HOU | 3 | 3 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 |
| 1980 | HOU | 1 | 1 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 |
| Career | 7 | 7 | 1.0 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | |
Post-football
[edit]After retiring from the NFL, Brazile, along with ex-Oiler teammate Ken Burrough, coached for a minor league pro team in Mobile, Alabama. After needing quadruple bypass heart surgery in 2004, Brazile gave up coaching and became a middle-school teacher for children with special needs in Mobile. He has also become an avid tennis player.[12][13] When asked if his old "Dr. Doom" persona ever comes out on the tennis court, he's quoted as saying laughingly, "No more Dr. Doom," "Just Robert Brazile."[14]
In 2007, Brazile was inducted into the Bancorp Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame.[15]
References
[edit]- ^ Houstonprofootball.com
- ^ Litsky, Frank (November 30, 1989). "Taylor is Sidelined for the Eagles Game". The New York Times. Retrieved March 6, 2008.
- ^ The Super '70s: Memories from Pro Football's Greatest Era
- ^ Houston's All-Time Team | HoustonProFootball.com
- ^ hickoksports.com Archived 2008-05-16 at the Wayback Machine
- ^ "Remembering the Luv Ya Blue Oilers". Chron.com – Houston Chronicle. Archived from the original on September 8, 2008. Retrieved March 6, 2008.
- ^ "chron.com". Archived from the original on September 8, 2008. Retrieved March 7, 2008.
- ^ "Big Time Brazile". Caller.com – Corpus-Christi Caller-Times. Archived from the original on March 8, 2012. Retrieved August 16, 2010.
- ^ "Big Time Brazile". Caller.com – Corpus-Christi Caller-Times. Archived from the original on March 8, 2012. Retrieved August 16, 2010.
- ^ "Packers legend Jerry Kramer named Pro Football Hall of Fame senior finalist". Retrieved August 24, 2017.
- ^ "Robert Brazile Inducted Into Ring of Honor". October 14, 2018. Retrieved November 19, 2018.
- ^ "Oilers were toast of Houston and nearly NFL, too". Chron.com – Houston Chronicle. December 9, 2007. Retrieved March 6, 2008.
- ^ "Catching up with the Luv Ya Blue crew". Chron.com – Houston Chronicle. December 9, 2007. Retrieved March 6, 2008.
- ^ chron.com
- ^ "Former JSU great and Houston Oiler inducted into Mississippi Sports HOF". jsutigers.com – Jackson State – Athletics. Archived from the original on March 14, 2008. Retrieved March 6, 2008.
External links
[edit]
Media related to Robert Brazile at Wikimedia Commons
Robert Brazile
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Childhood in Mobile
Robert Brazile was born on February 7, 1953, in Mobile, Alabama, where he spent his early years in a community deeply immersed in baseball culture.[1] Growing up in a neighborhood that included future Baseball Hall of Famers Hank Aaron and Billy Williams, Brazile was surrounded by the sport's prominence in Mobile, often referred to as a "baseball city" due to its production of numerous MLB stars like Willie Mays and Satchel Paige.[7] This environment initially drew him toward baseball, but he struggled with aspects of the game, particularly hitting curveballs, which led him to explore other athletic pursuits.[8] As a young boy, Brazile discovered his passion for football through the guidance of his uncle, Odell, who taught him the fundamentals of the sport and helped channel his athletic talents.[7] This shift proved pivotal, as Brazile later reflected on recognizing his innate abilities in football amid the diverse talents present in his surroundings: "As an athlete, everyone is blessed with some kind of talent. There are so many different varieties of talent out here in the world. For me it was football."[8] His early experiences in Mobile, marked by the transition from baseball's dominance to emerging football interest in the region, laid the foundation for his future athletic development during a time of social change in the American South.[7]High school career at Vigor High School
Robert Brazile attended Vigor High School in Prichard, Alabama, from 1969 to 1971, after attending local all-Black schools through eighth grade.[3][9] He experienced significant cultural adjustments during the late 1960s integration of schools in the region.[9] As a football standout, Brazile demonstrated early athletic prowess, growing up in Mobile where he honed his skills playing in the family yard and idolizing players like Dick Butkus.[9] In football, Brazile primarily played as a blocking tight end, leveraging his 6-foot-4 frame, speed, and physicality on a talented Vigor team that included future NFL player Rickey Young.[10][11] During his senior year, Brazile suffered a broken arm on the opening kickoff while serving as the kicker in a game against rival Murphy High School on October 9, 1970, an injury that temporarily jeopardized his college prospects in front of scouts.[12] Despite the setback, he earned recognition as the Defensive MVP of the 1971 Alabama High School All-Star Game.[3][13] Recruitment challenges persisted due to racial barriers in Southern college football at the time, with SEC programs like Alabama only recently integrating.[10] Not heavily recruited, Brazile received just one scholarship offer from Troy State, which he declined due to family concerns, ultimately walking on at Jackson State University alongside Young.[10][11]College career
Time at Jackson State University
Robert Brazile enrolled at Jackson State University in 1971, initially playing as a tight end before switching to linebacker during his sophomore year in 1972. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 241 pounds, with a reported 4.6-second 40-yard dash time, he quickly adapted to the defensive role under head coach Robert "Bob" Hill. During his four seasons (1971–1974), the Jackson State Tigers achieved a 30–10–1 overall record, including back-to-back Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championships in 1972 and 1973.[11] Brazile's defensive prowess became evident as he contributed to the Tigers' strong performances in the SWAC, a competitive conference featuring other future NFL talents like Walter Payton on the same roster. The 1972 and 1973 title-winning teams showcased Jackson State's dominance in black college football, with Brazile emerging as a key player in the linebacker corps. His versatility and speed helped anchor the defense during an era when the program was building a reputation for producing professional prospects, drawing increased scout attention to practices.[1] In his senior year of 1974, Brazile had a breakout season, leading the SWAC in total tackles with 208 and interceptions with 9, while setting a school record with 129 solo tackles and adding 79 assists. He earned All-SWAC first-team honors, a spot on the Sheridan Black College All-America Team, and consensus All-American recognition for his efforts. That year, he also participated in the Senior Bowl, further highlighting his skills to NFL evaluators and solidifying his status as one of the top defensive players in college football.[11][3][4][1]College awards and statistics
During his tenure at Jackson State University from 1971 to 1974, Robert Brazile established himself as a dominant linebacker, contributing to a team record of 30-10-1 and back-to-back Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championships in 1972 and 1973.[3][11] In his senior year of 1974, Brazile led the SWAC with 208 total tackles (129 solo and 79 assists), setting single-season benchmarks that highlighted his impact on the Tigers' defense, which finished 7-3 overall.[11][4] He also topped the conference in interceptions with nine that season, demonstrating his ball-hawking skills in the secondary coverage expected of outside linebackers at the time.[11][3] Brazile's outstanding performance earned him First-Team All-SWAC honors in 1974, along with consensus All-American recognition from multiple outlets, including the Sheridan Black College All-American team.[14][11] He capped his college career by participating in the Senior Bowl, where his versatility and athleticism drew attention from NFL scouts.[3]Professional career
Draft and rookie season
Brazile was selected by the Houston Oilers in the first round of the 1975 NFL Draft with the sixth overall pick, out of Jackson State University.[2] This high selection reflected his standout college performance as a versatile linebacker known for his speed and tackling ability.[3] In his rookie season of 1975, Brazile started all 14 games for the Oilers at right outside linebacker, recording 7 sacks and 5 fumble recoveries, with no interceptions.[2] His contributions were instrumental in bolstering the team's defense, which allowed 226 points (fifth in the league) and forced 43 turnovers (fifth in the league).[15] The Oilers finished with a 10-4 record, their first winning season in eight years, marking a significant turnaround under head coach Bum Phillips.[5] Brazile's immediate impact earned him the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year award, as well as AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year and AFC Rookie of the Year honors.[3][2] His performance set the stage for a prolific career, showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses from the outset.[5]Peak years with Houston Oilers
Brazile's peak years with the Houston Oilers spanned from 1976 to 1980, a period marked by his emergence as one of the league's premier outside linebackers and his pivotal role in the team's "Luv Ya Blue" era under head coach Bum Phillips. During this time, the Oilers transitioned from mediocrity to contention, achieving three consecutive seasons with 10 or more wins and reaching back-to-back AFC Championship Games in 1978 and 1979.[1][16] Brazile, nicknamed "Dr. Doom" for his intimidating presence and relentless play, anchored the defense alongside stars like Elvin Bethea and Curley Culp, helping to establish Houston as a formidable AFC force.[1] In 1976, Brazile earned his first First-Team All-Pro selection after recording 6.5 sacks and an interception across 14 starts, contributing to the Oilers' 5-9 record while showcasing his pass-rushing prowess from the weakside linebacker position.[2] His performance elevated in 1977 with three interceptions and five sacks, earning a Pro Bowl nod and a First-Team All-Pro honor as the team improved to 10-4 and clinched a playoff berth.[2] The following year, 1978, represented a career high, as Brazile amassed a career-high 185 tackles (95 solo), five sacks, and one interception in 16 games, securing First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors while being named the NFLPA's top AFC linebacker.[1][2] The 1979 and 1980 seasons solidified Brazile's dominance amid the Oilers' 11-5 records and playoff runs. In 1979, he notched two interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and five sacks, earning First-Team All-Pro recognition and a Pro Bowl selection, though the Oilers fell 27-13 to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship.[1][2] Brazile followed with another strong campaign in 1980, recording 6.5 sacks and two interceptions en route to a First-Team All-Pro nod and his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl appearance, as Houston again reached the playoffs but lost in the wild-card round.[2] Over these peak years, he accumulated 28 sacks, nine interceptions, and multiple fumble recoveries, consistently ranking among the NFL's elite defenders and earning selection to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team.[1][2]Later career
From 1981 to 1984, Brazile continued to start every game he played, earning Pro Bowl selections in 1981 and 1982. In the strike-shortened 1982 season, he appeared in 9 games with 6.5 sacks and an interception. He recorded 2.5 sacks and three fumble recoveries in 1983, followed by 2 sacks and an interception in his final 1984 season. These years added to his career totals while maintaining his status as a defensive cornerstone for the Oilers.[2]Retirement circumstances
Brazile retired from professional football at the age of 31 after the conclusion of the 1984 NFL season with the Houston Oilers. His decision came immediately following the tragic death of his wife, Cookie, in a car accident in December 1984. The loss profoundly impacted him, leading him to step away from the game without returning for another down.[9] At the time of his retirement, Brazile had established himself as one of the league's premier linebackers, having started all 147 regular-season games in his career and earning multiple Pro Bowl selections. However, the personal tragedy overshadowed his professional achievements, and he chose to prioritize his family and personal life over continuing in the NFL. This abrupt end to his playing career marked the close of a decade-long tenure that had defined the Oilers' defense during the late 1970s "Luv Ya Blue" era.[17][18]Playing style and impact
Nickname and reputation
Robert Brazile earned the nickname "Dr. Doom" early in his career, a moniker that reflected his fearsome presence on the field as a hard-hitting linebacker. The nickname originated during a breakfast before a college all-star game, when USC linebacker Richard Wood suggested it to broadcaster Howard Cosell, drawing inspiration from a "Dr. Doom" character in Chicago Tribune cartoons. Cosell approved, stating, “It means ‘death on offensive men.’ It fits you,” which helped popularize the name among peers and fans throughout Brazile's tenure with the Houston Oilers.[19] Brazile's reputation as one of the NFL's premier linebackers in the 1970s was built on his rare combination of size, speed, and ferocity, earning him recognition as a "tremendous hitter" from fellow players. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 241 pounds, he combined explosive athleticism with brute force, allowing him to excel as a pass rusher and run stopper; this versatility prompted Oilers coach Bum Phillips to adopt the innovative 3-4 defensive alignment to maximize Brazile's talents. Often described as "Lawrence Taylor before Lawrence Taylor" by teammates and observers, Brazile's impact influenced the evolution of the outside linebacker position, with Taylor himself crediting Brazile's style as an inspiration.[1][20] His on-field demeanor further enhanced his intimidating aura; despite delivering devastating hits, Brazile maintained a perpetual smile, which teammates noted amplified his psychological edge over opponents. This blend of physical dominance and unyielding positivity solidified his status as a preeminent defender, contributing to the Oilers' "Luv Ya Blue" era success and his selection to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1970s.[1][21]Statistical highlights and records
Robert Brazile's professional career with the Houston Oilers from 1975 to 1984 was marked by exceptional defensive production, particularly as an outside linebacker in the team's "Luv Ya Blue" era. Over 147 consecutive games started—a franchise record at the time—he amassed 1,281 tackles, ranking second in Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans history.[22][13] His unofficial sack total stands at 48, with official NFL-recorded sacks totaling 11 from 1982 to 1984, reflecting the era's incomplete tracking of the statistic prior to 1982.[2][13] Brazile recorded 13 interceptions for 201 yards over his career, including a career-long 33-yard return in 1980, and 14 fumble recoveries.[1][5] His peak performance came in 1978, when he led the team with a career-high 185 tackles (95 solo, 90 assisted), contributing significantly to the Oilers' 10-6 record and playoff run.[1] That postseason, in the AFC Championship Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, he tallied 9 tackles and 1 fumble recovery.[1][5]| Category | Career Total | Notable Seasons |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles | 1,281 | 185 (1978) |
| Sacks (unofficial/official) | 48 / 11 | 6.5 (1976), 6.5 (1980) |
| Interceptions | 13 | 2 (1979), 2 (1983) |
| Fumble Recoveries | 14 | 2 (1977), 2 (1979) |
