An All-American running back at Ohio State, John Brockington wasted little time proving himself worthy of the Packers' first pick in the 1971 NFL draft, finding the starting lineup after only his second preseason game. After posting an NFL rookie rushing record 1,105 yards in 1971 — while at the same time nabbing unanimous All-Pro and NFC Rookie of the Year honors — Brockington went on to become the first running back in NFL history to surpass 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons (seasons consisting of only 14 games), prompting some to compare him to the great Jim Brown.
In just his second year, Brockington helped carry the Packers to the NFC Central Division championship, something they wouldn't do again until 1995. Known mostly for his speed out of the backfield, Brockington also was a first rate blocker as well as a highly capable pass receiver, catching 138 passes for 1,075 yards and three touchdowns throughout his Packers career.
With 5,024 rushing yards, Brockington still remains the third leading rusher in team history, trailing only Ahman Green and Jim Taylor and ranks second with 1,293 attempts behind only Taylor. In six-plus seasons with the Packers, Brockington had 13 games in which he posted 100-yards or more. A three-time Pro Bowler, Brockington was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1984.
In 2001, after a long battle with kidney failure, John received a kidney from his then friend, Diane Scott. They are now married, both in excellent health, and committed to helping others receive a second chance at life through transplantation.
