Rashard Higgins’ career in Cleveland was a rollercoaster — filled with both heartbreak and unforgettable triumphs. The former Colorado State wideout joined the Browns as a fifth-round pick in 2016, enduring the lows of the infamous 1-31 stretch but later celebrating the franchise’s long-awaited breakthrough in the 2020 playoffs.
Former Browns WR Rashard “Hollywood” Higgins traded in his cleats 🏈for boots and is now a firefighter, something he says he opted to do after finding God 🙏 and purpose. https://t.co/wAH8vjZIsE
— Anthony F (@OhioAF) September 13, 2025
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Higgins played a pivotal role in that playoff run, catching key passes in the Browns’ stunning victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Yet, he is also tied to one of the great “what ifs” in Cleveland sports history. In the divisional round against the Kansas City Chiefs, Higgins was hit helmet-to-helmet by safety Daniel Sorensen as he lunged for the goal line. The ball was jarred loose and rolled through the end zone, resulting in a devastating turnover. Targeting wasn’t called, and had Higgins scored, the Browns could have been on their way to the AFC Championship Game for the first time in the expansion era.
After six seasons in Cleveland and one with the Carolina Panthers, Higgins stepped away from football with 137 career receptions for 1,890 yards and 12 touchdowns. Now, at 30, he’s found a new calling.
On Instagram, Higgins revealed that he is now serving as a firefighter, a role he says provides the same adrenaline rush as football but with an even greater sense of purpose.
“That same rush I felt under the lights is the same rush I get when I put on my boots and step into that fire,” Higgins wrote.
He explained that after retiring, he wanted his children to see drive and purpose in their father. Through prayer and faith, Higgins discovered a new mission: to serve others.
From Browns fan favorite to everyday hero, Higgins has transitioned from chasing touchdowns to saving lives. His story is a reminder that purpose doesn’t end when the cheering stops — sometimes, it only begins.
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Rashard Higgins’ Top 3 Career Highlights with the Cleveland Browns
Rashard Higgins was a star in the NFL, and he became a fan favorite in Cleveland thanks to his chemistry with Baker Mayfield, his clutch catches, and his knack for showing up in big moments. From the lowest points of the rebuild to the unforgettable highs of the playoff run, Higgins carved out a special place in Browns history. Here’s a look back at his top three career highlights.
3. The “What If” Moment vs. Kansas City Chiefs (2020 Divisional Round)
It’s one of the most unforgettable — and painful — plays in Browns history. With the Browns trailing late in the first half, Higgins caught a 25-yard strike from Baker Mayfield and dove for the pylon. He was hit helmet-to-helmet by Chiefs safety Daniel Sorensen, fumbling the ball out of the end zone for a touchback.
The hit went unflagged, and instead of taking the lead into halftime, Cleveland went into the locker room trailing. While it didn’t go the Browns’ way, the play symbolized Higgins’ fearless style and left fans forever wondering: What if targeting had been called?
2. 2018 Breakout Season and TD vs. Ravens
Higgins’ chemistry with rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield was undeniable in 2018. He set career highs across the board, catching 39 passes for 572 yards and four touchdowns.
One of his most memorable grabs came in Week 5 against the Baltimore Ravens, when he hauled in a 39-yard touchdown from Mayfield. Cleveland went on to win the game in overtime, 12-9, marking one of the team’s biggest victories of the season and solidifying Higgins as a trusted target in crunch time.
1. Playoff Heroics vs. Steelers (2020 AFC Wild Card)
The Browns’ 2020 playoff run will forever be etched in franchise history — and Higgins played a crucial role. Against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card round, he caught five passes for 88 yards, including several key first downs that helped keep drives alive.
The Browns shocked the Steelers 48-37, earning their first playoff victory since 1994. Higgins’ contributions may not have been flashy, but they were vital in one of Cleveland’s most celebrated wins of the modern era.
Final Thoughts
From his breakout in 2018 to the playoff highs — and heartbreaking near-miss in Kansas City — Rashard Higgins left Browns fans with plenty of memorable moments. He embodied toughness, resilience, and heart, making him a true fan favorite.
Now retired from football and serving as a firefighter, Higgins continues to inspire — both on and off the field.
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