Roger Brown was drafted 4th to the NFL’s Detroit Lions. He won pro-bowl honors, was voted the NFL’s outstanding defensive lineman in 1962, and he sacked both Johnny Unitas and Bart Starr for safeties in a single season (an NFL record). He was also one of the famous Fearsome Foursome of the Los Angeles Rams. After such a dynamic career Roger should sit back and relax, right? Wrong!
After football, Roger Brown redirected his career, focusing on the food industry. Starting his own chain of 8 fast food restaurants in Chicago, he later went to work for the McDonald’s Corporation, eventually owning 3 McDonald’s Restaurants in Virginia.

Now at age 64 he has sold those restaurants and opened Roger Brown’s Restaurant & Sports Bar in downtown Portsmouth. Serving on 14 boards and committees, Roger has become an important player in Portsmouth. “I’m a team player from way back,” says Roger. “I’ve always put my heart and soul into the organizations I’ve played for. Now I’m on the Portsmouth team, it’s a great city that’s on the move.”

“My motto,” says Mr. Brown, “is be daring, be first, be different. Don’t let anyone put you into a mold. You’re not supposed to be a certain way because of your age, or who you are, or who you were. Be what you are and what you want to be because it’s in your heart and being.”
When asked for advice for the seniors of Hampton Roads, Roger humbly says that he cannot advise anyone to do what he has done. “It’s a lot of work and a significant risk. All seniors however, should stay active. Golf, fish, or whatever you like to do. Also do something that you enjoy as a second job.”

Roger Brown’s Restaurant & Sports Bar looks like another winner. His ‘Down Home Bones’ (spare ribs) and ‘Carolina Coast Shrimp and Grits’ are outstanding, as is the entire menu. Come to the new downtown Portsmouth and experience Roger Brown’s great food and unique atmosphere. Call Roger Brown’s at 757-399-5377 for directions or more information. We highly recommend it!