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LeRoy Irvin, two-time Pro Bowl cornerback for the Los Angeles Rams, has died. He was 68 years old.
Irvin’s former Rams teammate, Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson, wrote on his Instagram on Thursday that Irvin had recently died, saying he was “devastated” by the news.
Los Angeles-based journalist Eric Geller, who noted working with Irvin after his retirement, wrote in an X article that Irvin was battling throat cancer. No additional details have been released about Irvin’s death.
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Former NFL cornerback LeRoy Irvin attends the second annual Hall Of Fame Golf Invitational benefiting the Young Warriors Foundation at Angeles National Golf Club on July 24, 2015 in Sunland, California. (Paul Archuleta/WireImage)
“LeRoy wasn’t just a tight corner and a fierce competitor on the field; he was a true friend and a great man who always brought incredible energy,” Dickerson said. “Rest in peace, brother. I send my thoughts and prayers to the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation.”
Dickerson shared a photo of him and Irvin together at an event for the former’s foundation.
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Irvin became a member of the Rams in 1980 when they took him in the third round of the NFL draft out of Kansas.
Irvin spent 10 of his 11 years with the Rams, although his career ended after one season with the Detroit Lions.
LeRoy Irvin of the Los Angeles Rams in 1989 at Anaheim Stadium in Anaheim, California. (Owen Shaw/Getty Images)
Irvin was a lock corner named first-team All-Pro in 1981 after totaling three interceptions, two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries in 16 games. He also picked up his first career sack that year.
Irvin had a knack for big plays, especially when it came to interceptions. He had 35 in his career. During the 1984 campaign, he had five interceptions, two of which he returned to the house for a pick six. Those two interception returns for touchdowns led the league.
Irvin became a star for the Rams at this point in his career, earning Pro Bowl nods in 1985 and 1986, the latter of which was again named a first-team All-Pro. In 1985, he was named a second-team All-Pro.
Defensive back LeRoy Irvin of the Los Angeles Rams takes the field during a game against the Miami Dolphins at Anaheim Stadium on December 14, 1986, in Anaheim, California. (George Rose/Getty Images)
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“We mourn the loss of Rams legend LeRoy Irvin,” the Rams wrote in a statement on social media. “We extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
During his career with the Rams, Irvin collected 34 interceptions, including five returned for touchdowns; nine forced fumbles; and 13 fumbles recovered.
