The football world is mourning the death of Raymond Berry, a Pro Football Hall of Famer. He died on Monday, May 25, 2026, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, at the age of 93, according to his family.
Berry was a two-time NFL champion with the Baltimore Colts. He was renowned for elevating route-running into an art form through practice and a strong work ethic.
Hall of Fame Recognition
Berry was elected to the Hall of Fame’s Class of 1973 in his first year of eligibility. Jim Porter, the Hall of Fame’s president & CEO, noted Berry’s dedication to refining his skills.
Porter highlighted the dynamic partnership between Berry and quarterback Johnny Unitas. Their connection, forged through hours of practice, helped the Colts win consecutive titles in the late 1950s. This included the 1958 NFL Championship Game.
Porter also described Berry as a gentleman who remained humble.
Accolades and Achievements
Berry’s 13-year career included 631 receptions for 9,275 yards and 68 touchdowns in 154 regular-season games. He earned numerous accolades, including being named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1950s.
- AFL-NFL 1960-1984 All-Star Team
- NFL’s 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100 All-Time Team
Berry ranked 40th on The Sporting News’ list of “100 Greatest Football Players” in 1999. Peers in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including Paul Warfield, Lenny Moore, and Lance Alworth, placed him on their top 10 lists for best receivers.
Linebacker Willie Lanier ranked Berry No. 5 on his personal list of best players at any position. Tackle Forrest Gregg ranked him third, behind only Johnny Unitas and Jim Brown.
Unitas-to-Berry Connection
Unitas joined the Colts one year after Berry. Together, they became one of the NFL’s greatest pass-catching duos.
Berry led the league in receptions for three consecutive seasons (1958-1960). He also led the NFL in receiving yards three times (1957, 1959 and 1960) and touchdown catches twice (1958-59).
His best statistical year came in his All-Pro 1960 season, with a career-high 1,298 yards on 74 receptions and 10 touchdowns. He had a midseason run of six 100-yard games, totaling 50 catches for 920 yards and eight touchdowns in that span.
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Berry had some of his greatest moments in the 1958 NFL Championship Game, later called “The Greatest Game Ever Played.” In the 23-17 overtime victory over the New York Giants, he had 12 catches for 178 yards and a touchdown.
Three of his grabs helped the Colts to victory.
The football world reflects on the career of Raymond Berry, remembering his skill and dedication to the sport.