Otto Brown


Otto Brown was an American football defensive back in the National Football League for the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants. He played college football at Prairie View A&M University.

Early years

Brown attended Florida A&M University Developmental Research School, where he practiced football and baseball. He accepted a football scholarship from Prairie View A&M University under head coach Hoover J. Wright.
He played as a running back, before being converted into a cornerback. He also was a punt return specialist. He received the Thomas Burton Award for the school's athlete having the highest grade average in science.
He missed his senior season, after being dismissed from Prairie View A&M following an incident of burned campus buildings, in response to the killing of halfback Wesley Davidson. In 1970, he filed a suit against the school arguing the violation of his civil rights.

Professional career

Dallas Cowboys

Brown was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys after the 1969 NFL Draft. That season, he started in the last game and the playoffs over Phil Clark at right cornerback. He was released on September 10, 1970.

New York Giants

In 1970, he was signed by the New York Giants to their taxi squad, before being activated on September 23. In 1971, he started 8 games at left cornerback. He was waived on September 4, 1973.

The Hawaiians (WFL)

In 1974, he signed a contract with The Hawaiians of the World Football League. He was a starter at cornerback and played in 20 games, while making 3 interceptions.