Los Angeles Rams legend LeRoy Irvin, the hard-hitting defensive back remembered as one of the NFL’s most feared cornerbacks, has died at the age of 68.
Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson announced the heartbreaking news Thursday, revealing he was “devastated” over the loss of his longtime teammate and close friend.
“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,” Dickerson wrote on Instagram.
“Rest in peace, my brother. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation.”
Dickerson shared a touching photo of the two former Rams stars smiling together at an event organized by the Eric Dickerson Foundation.
The pair spent five seasons together in Los Angeles and remained close long after their playing days ended.
Irvin’s official cause of death was not immediately announced. However, Los Angeles journalist Eric Geller, who worked with Irvin after his NFL retirement, said the former football star had been battling throat cancer.
“Extremely sad day — especially in the #RamsHouse,” Geller wrote on X.
“My friend — LeRoy Irvin — lost his battle, ironically enough, to throat cancer last night, which hits home for me in so many ways.”
Geller said he would always remember Irvin’s distinctive raspy voice and sharp sense of humor.
“I will miss that raspy voice and that sense of humor that made me smile and laugh whenever we met up at some Rams function,” he wrote. “R.I.P. LeRoy!”
Irvin joined the Rams in 1980 after the team selected him with the 70th overall pick in the NFL Draft.
He quickly became a force in the secondary and spent 10 seasons with the franchise, starting 104 games.
Known for his speed, physical style and ability to shut down opposing receivers, Irvin recorded 35 interceptions during his NFL career.
He was selected to the Pro Bowl twice and earned All-Pro honors on two occasions.
After leaving the Rams, Irvin played his final NFL season with the Detroit Lions.
His death has left former teammates, friends and longtime Rams fans mourning a player who was admired not only for his talent on the field, but also for the energy and laughter he brought to those around him.
Irvin is survived by his family and a lasting legacy as one of the most memorable defensive stars in Rams history.
