A Seattle Seahawks legend, Kenny Easley, has died at the age of 66. Easley was a five-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Known as “The Enforcer,” he was famous for his hard-hitting play and knack for interceptions.
The Seahawks confirmed Easley’s passing on X but did not provide a cause of death. The NFL Hall of Fame noted that Easley had long battled health issues, which also contributed to his playing career ending prematurely after only 89 games.
Considered “one of the most tenacious, hard-hitting defensive backs in National Football League history,” Easley left an indelible mark on the game.
The Seahawks released a heartfelt statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Seahawks legend Kenny Easley. Kenny embodied what it meant to be a Seahawk through his leadership, toughness, intensity, and fearlessness. His intimidating nature and athletic grace made him one of the best players of all time. Earning his nickname, ‘The Enforcer,’ for his hard-hitting play, Kenny was named to the 1990s All-Decade Team, piling up 32 interceptions over seven seasons, three of which he returned for touchdowns.
Kenny was a five-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team AP All-Pro during his seven seasons in Seattle. In 1984, he became the first player in franchise history to earn Defensive Player of the Year honors. He was inducted into the Seahawks Ring of Honor in 2002 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.
A man of faith, Kenny will forever be remembered as a beloved member of the Seahawks family. His legacy will live on as an inspiration to fans around the world. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Gail, and children, Kendrick, Gabrielle, and Giordanna.”
Following the announcement, fans took to X to pay tribute. One user wrote, “I got no love for Seattle but respect the great ones and Easley was one of them.” Another expressed sadness, saying, “He died way too young. What happened?”
Kenny Easley’s legacy as one of the toughest and most talented defensive backs in NFL history will be remembered by Seahawks fans and football enthusiasts alike.
https://www.complex.com/sports/a/jessica-mcbride/kenny-easley-dead-cause-of-death-how-did-he-die
