Leroy Hoard

Leroy Hoard (born May 15, 1968 in New Orleans, Louisiana) is a retired American football running back who played for the Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and Minnesota Vikings of the NFL. He played college football at the University of Michigan and was typically a third down or a goal-line back for all the teams he played for.

The highlight of his college career was being named MVP of the 1989 Rose Bowl in Michigan's win over USC. Hoard was named to the Pro Bowl in 1994 after rushing for 890 yards and five touchdowns for Cleveland. He also added 45 receptions for 445 yards and four touchdowns receiving. Hoard set a career-high with ten rushing touchdowns in 1999, his final season in the league.

Noted for both his sense of humor and bruising, powerful rushing style, Hoard was primarily a "goal-line" running back who excelled at breaking through an opposing defense's goal line run-stopping formations. Regarding his skills, Hoard reportedly once said to his coach, "Coach, if you need one yard, I'll get you three yards. If you need five yards, I'll get you three yards."