Michigan Wolverines recently clinched the national title, yet both positive and negative narratives about their program dominated college football discussions throughout the season. Today, their fans have every reason to feel proud.
On Friday, Braylon Edwards, a seven-year veteran and former star wide receiver for the Michigan Wolverines, who earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors during his second NFL season with the Cleveland Browns in 2007, found himself in a harrowing situation. Without hesitation, he sprang into action, saving the life of an 80-year-old man.
Following a prolific collegiate career with the Michigan Wolverines, during which he became the only Big Ten wide receiver to amass 1,000 yards receiving in three consecutive seasons, Edwards became highly sought after in the 2005 NFL Draft. His senior year accolades, including winning the Fred Biletnikoff Award for the nation’s top receiver, earning the Chicago Tribune Silver Football as the Big Ten Conference’s most valuable player, and unanimous first-team All-American recognition, underscored his exceptional talent.
Selected third overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2005 NFL Draft, Edwards enjoyed a seven-year NFL career, with stints at the Jets, 49ers, and Seahawks before retiring ahead of the 2013 season. In 2007, he had a breakout season, earning his first Pro Bowl selection and setting franchise records for receiving yardage and touchdowns with the Browns.
Despite his achievements, Edwards faced challenges, including a public bet with Michael Phelps to catch 17 touchdowns in the 2008 NFL season, which was marred by team struggles and personal setbacks. Traded to the New York Jets, he contributed to the team’s postseason run in 2009-2010, including a memorable touchdown catch in the AFC Championship game.
Although Edwards continued to showcase his talent with subsequent teams, including the Jets, 49ers, and Seahawks, he could not recapture the early-career success that defined his tenure with the Browns. Ultimately, he retired from professional football ahead of the 2013 season.