SouthernWorldwide.com – LeRoy Irvin, a distinguished cornerback who twice earned All-Pro honors during his tenure with the Los Angeles Rams, has passed away at the age of 68.
The news of Irvin’s death was shared by his former Rams teammate, Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson, on Instagram. Dickerson expressed his profound sadness, stating he was “devastated” by the recent passing of his friend.
Los Angeles-based journalist Eric Geller, who had worked with Irvin following his retirement, revealed in an X post that Irvin had been engaged in a battle with throat cancer. Further details surrounding his death have not been disclosed.
“LeRoy was more than just a shutdown corner and a fiercely competitive player on the field; he was a genuine friend and an exceptional man who consistently brought immense energy,” Dickerson remarked. “Rest in peace, my brother. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation during this time.”
Dickerson accompanied his message with a photograph of himself and Irvin together at an event supporting Dickerson’s foundation, highlighting their enduring camaraderie.
Irvin’s journey with the Rams began in 1980 when the team selected him in the third round of the NFL Draft. He hailed from Kansas.
He dedicated 10 of his 11 professional seasons to the Rams, concluding his career with a single season playing for the Detroit Lions.
Irvin established himself as a formidable cornerback, earning first-team All-Pro recognition in 1981. In that standout season, he recorded three interceptions, forced two fumbles, and recovered three fumbles across 16 games. He also registered his first career sack that same year.
Irvin demonstrated a remarkable talent for making impactful plays, particularly with interceptions. He amassed a total of 35 interceptions throughout his career. During the 1984 season, he recorded five interceptions, with two of those resulting in touchdowns – a testament to his ability to return interceptions for scores (pick-sixes). His two interception returns for touchdowns led the league that year.
By this stage of his career, Irvin was firmly cemented as a star cornerback for the Rams. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in both 1985 and 1986. In 1986, he once again received first-team All-Pro honors, and in 1985, he was named second-team All-Pro.
“We deeply mourn the loss of Rams Legend LeRoy Irvin,” the Rams organization stated in a social media announcement. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends as they navigate this incredibly difficult period.”
During his distinguished career with the Rams, Irvin accumulated an impressive 34 interceptions, five of which he returned for touchdowns. He also forced nine fumbles and recovered 13 fumbles, showcasing his all-around defensive prowess.
