Fitzgerald Cecilio

Cleveland Browns legend Jim Brown is ready to apologize to running back Trent Richardson if he eventually becomes an NFL star.

Until that happens, Brown is standing pat on his statement that he doesn't see "special ability" in Richardson,picked by Cleveland as its first round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.

"When I think of greatness, I think of guys like Earl Campbell and Gale Sayers and Walter Payton, and these individuals who, it's unanimous they're going to make a difference — when they're coming out of college, there's no doubt," Brown told ProFootballTalk.com.

"So at least we have to discuss Richardson from the standpoint of giving him an ordinary label and letting him prove to us that he's not," he added.

"And if he does that, then I will apologize. But I'm going to look at things, I'm going to stand by things I see, and I think he is an ordinary individual. He has great work ethic and all-around ability," Brown said.

Brown also called on Browns owner Randy Lerner to be more hands-on with the team rather than delegating authority Browns president Mike Holmgren.

"I think that the owner, and I have to be very candid with you, is trying to turn all the power over to someone else. I don't think that's possible," Brown said. "I think that the owner is ultimately going to be the leader, and I think until Randy takes that position, it's going to be difficult.

Brown played for Cleveland from 1957 to 1965 and owns the team's rushing record in a season with 1,863 yards -- currently the oldest franchise record for rushing yards out of all 32 NFL teams.

In 118 career games, Brown averaged 104.3 yards per game and 5.2 yards per carry. He ran for 106 touchdowns and caught 20 passes in the end zone.

In 1964, the Long island multi-sports star led Cleveland to a NFL Championship title and he was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971.

Cleveland Browns Legend Jim Brown Stands by Comment on Trent Richardson - NFL Football