‘A TRUE FRIEND’

NFL Legend Dies at 68 After Cancer Battle

The former cornerback was suffering from throat cancer before his passing.

Two-time Pro Bowler LeRoy Irvin has died at age 68. “Extremely sad day—especially in the #RamsHouse,” friend and journalist Eric 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.” The cornerback joined the Los Angeles Rams in 1980 and played for the team for 10 seasons. He spent one season with the Detroit Lions before retiring at the end of the 1990 NFL season. During his career, he started 104 games for the Rams, recorded 35 interceptions, and was named both a Pro Bowler and an All-Pro. Others also paid tribute, honoring the late player. “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,” former Rams teammate Eric Dickerson wrote on Instagram, sharing a photo of the two together at an event for Dickerson’s foundation. “Rest in peace, my brother. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation.”