Cleveland Browns Era
In 1984, Rickey Bolden was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 4th round — 96th pick overall. The former SMU tight end transitioned to the offensive line, using his 6'6" frame and athleticism to become a dominant force at offensive tackle and guard.
Over six seasons, Rickey played in 62 games with 34 starts, protecting quarterbacks like Bernie Kosar and blocking for running backs Kevin Mack and Earnest Byner. Under head coach Marty Schottenheimer, the Browns became one of the premier teams in the AFC.
"The Drive" — 1986 AFC Championship
January 11, 1987. Cleveland Municipal Stadium. The Browns vs. the Denver Broncos for the AFC Championship and a trip to the Super Bowl. Rickey was on the field as part of the offensive line when John Elway orchestrated one of the most famous drives in NFL history — a 98-yard march in the final five minutes that tied the game and eventually sent Denver to the Super Bowl.
"The Drive" remains one of the most iconic moments in professional football, and Rickey was there — part of the Browns team that came within minutes of the Super Bowl.
1990 Hall of Fame Game
Rickey also played in the 1990 Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio — the annual preseason game held at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting stage for a player who had given everything to the game.
The Decision to Walk Away
Most players don't choose when their career ends. Rickey did. A veteran teammate had warned him early:
"Rickey, in this league, you have to prepare to leave before you even arrive."
Those words stayed with him. And one day, during a game, clarity arrived:
"I was on the field when all of a sudden it was clear to me I wasn't supposed to be there anymore, that my career was over and I was supposed to be in ministry."
Rickey walked away from the NFL not because he was forced out, but because he heard a different call — one that would lead him to Ashland Theological Seminary and three decades of ministry.
Career Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Team | Cleveland Browns |
| Seasons | 6 (1984–1989) |
| Draft | 1984, 4th Round, 96th Overall |
| Position | Offensive Tackle / Guard |
| Games Played | 62 |
| Games Started | 34 |
| Height | 6'6" |
| Weight | 274 lbs (played up to 320) |
| Jersey Numbers | #88, #77 |
| Head Coach | Marty Schottenheimer |
| College | SMU (1980–1984) |
Notable Moments
- ▸ 1986 AFC Championship — "The Drive"
- ▸ 1990 Hall of Fame Game
- ▸ 2x All-Southwest Conference (SMU)
- ▸ All-American — Hillcrest High School
Notable Teammates
- ● Bernie Kosar — QB
- ● Kevin Mack — RB
- ● Earnest Byner — RB
- ● Ozzie Newsome — TE (HOF)
- ● Cody Risien — OT
NFL Photos
