John O'Leary: Nebraska Legend, CFL Champion | Birmingham News

John OLeary, a legendary Nebraska running back and Grey Cup champion, has died at 72. A cornerstone of Nebraska’s dominant 1970s era, he rushed for over 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns in just 33 games. Drafted by the Bears, he chose the CFL — where he led the Montreal Alouettes to a 1977 title, carrying the ball nearly 200 times for 800+ yards. His legacy lives on through his son T.J., who also played for Nebraska, and his family — wife Peggy, children, and grandchildren — who remember him as a proud, impactful athlete. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://www.al.com/sports/2026/09/former-nebraska-football-star-cfl-champion-dies-at-72.html More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/036c8953a07aa6a1 Report issues to [email protected].