Cleveland Browns fans will have a lot on their mind at the home opener on Sunday, trying to decide whether to cheer or boo starting quarterback Deshaun Watson. Before that, they will undoubtedly give a big ovation to some former players.
The Browns will hold their 2026 Class of Legends ceremony prior to the game against the Carolina Panthers. It is a returning event that recognizes some of the stalwarts of the franchise.
After not honoring anyone last year, three Browns legends will be inducted at Sunday’s game: center Alex Mack, wide receiver Brian Brennan, and offensive lineman Lou Rymkus.
“These three Browns legends will be inducted at Sunday’s game: Alex Mack, Brian Brennan and Lou Rymkus,” the team posted.
These three Browns legends will be inducted at Sunday's game 🧡
Alex Mack and Brian Brennan will be your Dawg Pound Captain's! pic.twitter.com/I5nNBWP5DO
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) September 26, 2026
The Browns Legends Program started in 2001 with the induction of the Browns’ Pro Football Hall of Famers along with five other honorees. To qualify, a player must have been with the team for at least five years, been a major contributor at their position, and been retired for at least five years. An eight-person panel chooses the players who are honored.
Mack started every game he appeared in during his seven seasons with the Browns (2009-15), playing 5,279 consecutive snaps to begin his career. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2010, 2013 and 2015, the most by a Cleveland center.
Brennan played the first eight years of his nine-year NFL career with the Browns (1984-91). He ranks fifth in franchise history in receptions with 315, ninth in receiving yards with 4,148, and he is tied for 15th in receiving touchdowns with 19. During his time with Cleveland, the team reached the postseason five times, including three trips to the AFC Championship Game.
Rymkus played for the Browns from 1946-51. He helped the Browns win four straight AAFC championships from 1946-49 and the NFL championship in 1950, their first season in the league. He passed away in 1998 at the age of 78.
Mack and Brennan will be Dawg Pound captains on Sunday. Running back Nick Chubb, who signed a one-day contract this week to retire with Clevealnd, will also have a pregame role.
Hopefully, this ceremony will set a celebratory tone before Watson and the Browns take the field to face the Panthers.
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