Hall of Fame
Claude Brownlee was a four-year starter and lettermen for the Benedict football team from 1962-1966. He also was a standout in track.
Brownlee was a second-team All-SIAC selection as a junior, and was named first-team All-SIAC and an All-American by the Pittsburgh Courier following his senior season. Following his senior season, Brownlee, a 6-foot-4 defensive tackle, was drafted by the Baltimore Colts of the National Football League in the 10th round, the 156th overall player chosen. He was also drafted by the Miami Dolphins of the American Football League in the fifth round, the 86th overall player chosen. He played one season with the Miami Dolphins in 1967.
A native of Columbus, Ga., Brownlee graduated from William H. Spencer High School in 1962, where he played for coach Thomas "Iron Duke" Works. Works had been an outstanding football player for Benedict, and Brownlee attended Benedict based on his coach's recommendation.
