LeRoy Irvin, the cornerback who defined the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive backfield throughout the 1980s, has passed away at 68 years old.
The Rams organization confirmed the news Thursday in a brief statement, saying: “We mourn the loss of Rams Legend LeRoy Irvin. We extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
The team did not disclose when or where Irvin died, nor did they reveal a cause of death.
Irvin played his college ball at Kansas before the Rams selected him in the third round — 70th overall — of the 1980 NFL Draft. He spent the entire decade in Los Angeles, then wrapped up his professional career with the Detroit Lions during the 1990 season.
During his time with the Rams, Irvin appeared in 143 games, starting 104 of them. He picked off 34 passes for 654 yards and found the end zone five times on interception returns. He also recovered 13 fumbles, taking one back for a touchdown.
In his final season with Detroit, Irvin started all 16 games, recording one interception and forcing a fumble.
Irvin earned first-team All-Pro honors in both 1981 and 1986 and was selected to the Pro Bowl twice. In 11 playoff appearances, he hauled in four interceptions for 149 yards.
Pro Football Hall of Fame member Eric Dickerson, who shared four full seasons as Irvin’s teammate, took to social media Thursday to honor his former colleague.
“Devastated to hear about the passing of my brother, teammate, and Rams legend Leroy Irvin,” Dickerson wrote. “Leroy wasn’t just a lockdown corner and a fierce competitor on the field; he was a true friend and a great man who always brought incredible energy. Rest in peace, my brother. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation.”
