Seahawks Legend and Hall of Famer Kenny Easley Dies at 66
Kenny Easley, the renowned safety for the Seattle Seahawks, passed away on Friday at the age of 66. His death marks the loss of a significant figure in football history.
Kenny Easley: A Seahawks Legend
Easley played his entire seven-year career with the Seahawks, leaving an indelible mark on the team and the NFL. He was drafted fourth overall in 1981 from UCLA and quickly became known as “The Enforcer” due to his aggressive playing style.
Career Highlights
- Five-time Pro Bowl selection.
- Three-time first-team All-Pro.
- AFC Defensive Player of the Year in 1984.
- Member of the 1980s All-Decade Team.
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.
During his career, Easley recorded 32 interceptions, leading the league with ten in 1984. Additionally, he had three career touchdown returns. His exceptional ball skills and fearless play made him one of the most formidable safeties in NFL history.
Impact on the Seahawks Community
The Seahawks organization expressed deep sorrow over Easley’s passing, stating, “Kenny embodied what it meant to be a Seahawk through his leadership, toughness, intensity, and fearlessness.” He was admired not only for his on-field prowess but also for his character as a player and person.
After battling severe kidney disease, Easley’s career ended prematurely in 1987. He filed a lawsuit against the Seahawks, claiming that the team had not informed him about the risks associated with painkillers he had taken during his final season. In the early 2000s, he reconciled with the organization under new ownership.
Legacy and Remembrance
Kenny Easley was inducted into the Seahawks’ Ring of Honor in 2002 and was recently recognized as one of the franchise’s 50 greatest players. He is survived by his wife, Gail, and their children Kendrick, Gabrielle, and Giordanna.
His faith and commitment to the sport inspired countless fans and players alike. Easley’s legacy as a football icon will continue to resonate within the Seahawks community and beyond.
