Lawrence McCutcheon, the five-time Pro Bowl running back who became one of the Los Angeles Rams’ top offensive stars of the 1970s before spending more than three decades in the organization’s personnel department, has died at 76.
Family cites Parkinson’s disease battle
McCutcheon died Friday after what his family described as a long and courageous fight with Parkinson’s disease. The former Rams standout, widely known by the nickname “Clutch,” left a lasting mark on the franchise both on the field and in the front office.
In a family statement, McCutcheon was remembered for the regard he earned throughout a career that spanned 10 NFL seasons and 32 additional years with the Rams’ personnel operation.
- McCutcheon was a five-time Pro Bowl selection.
- He made the AP second-team All-Pro roster in 1974.
- He led the Rams in rushing in five straight seasons, from 1973 through 1977.
- He played in 11 postseason games with Los Angeles.
“Clutch will be missed and remembered forever,” the family said, noting the respect he received from teammates, opponents, coworkers and Rams fans.
Rams centerpiece during the 1970s
A native of Plainview, Texas, McCutcheon entered the NFL when the Rams selected him out of Colorado State in the 1972 draft. He spent his first eight seasons with Los Angeles and quickly became a central figure in Chuck Knox’s offense.
McCutcheon’s blend of production and durability made him one of the era’s more dangerous running backs. By the time he departed the Rams in 1980, he stood as the franchise’s all-time rushing leader.
A touchdown pass on the Super Bowl stage
His playoff résumé included an unusual moment in Super Bowl XIV in January 1980. McCutcheon threw a touchdown pass to Ron Smith, giving Los Angeles the lead against the Pittsburgh Steelers before Pittsburgh rallied to win the championship.
After leaving the Rams, McCutcheon completed his playing career over two seasons with the Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks and Buffalo Bills.
Three decades in Rams personnel
McCutcheon returned to the organization after his retirement as a player and built a long second career in football operations. He worked in the Rams’ front office for more than 30 years and ultimately became director of player personnel for the St. Louis Rams.
- He held the director of player personnel role from 2003 until 2016.
- His retirement came shortly before the franchise relocated from St. Louis back to Los Angeles.
- His combined playing and front-office service to the Rams covered more than four decades.
McCutcheon’s football legacy also continued through his family. His son, Daylon McCutcheon, played cornerback for the Cleveland Browns from 1999 through 2006. His grandson, Dyson McCutcheon, is a defensive back at Middle Tennessee.
