Kenny Easley, a legendary former safety for the Seattle Seahawks and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, has passed away at the age of 66, the Hall of Fame announced on Saturday. Easley’s family revealed that he died Friday night but did not disclose the cause of death. The Seahawks organization expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Easley’s leadership, toughness, intensity, and fearlessness that defined his career and made him one of the most intimidating and graceful players in NFL history.
Easley’s journey to NFL stardom began when the Seattle Seahawks selected him as the fourth overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft, coming out of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He spent his entire professional career in Seattle, playing seven seasons and earning five Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro honors. Easley’s 1984 season was particularly outstanding; he led the league with 10 interceptions and was named the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year—an honor that made him the first player in Seahawks history to receive the award.
Unfortunately, Easley’s promising career was cut short due to health complications. After the 1987 season, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, but a kidney ailment led to him failing his physical exam, preventing him from playing further. The kidney condition also caused tension between Easley and the Seahawks, as Easley believed the team was aware of his health issues but did not inform him. The relationship between Easley and the Seahawks began to improve in 2002 under then-owner Paul Allen, a reconciliation marked by Easley’s induction into the team’s Ring of Honor that same year.
Throughout his career, Easley amassed impressive statistics: 32 interceptions, tying him for the fourth most in Seahawks history, along with 11 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, and eight sacks. His impact on the field was profound, combining athleticism with a fierce competitive spirit.
Before his NFL success, Easley was a standout player at UCLA, where he played free safety under coach Terry Donahue from 1977 to 1980. He made an immediate impact as a true freshman, becoming the first player in Pac-10 conference history to earn first-team All-Conference honors all four years he played. Furthermore, he was only the second player in UCLA history to be named a three-time consensus All-American. Easley still holds the UCLA record for career interceptions with 19, including 13 during his first two seasons. He ranks fifth in all-time tackles at UCLA, with 374 stops, and his 93 tackles as a freshman remain the most ever by a Bruin true freshman.
In his senior year, Easley totaled 105 tackles and finished ninth in the Heisman Trophy voting, an impressive feat for a defensive player. He also contributed as a punt returner during his college career. Recognizing his exceptional contributions, UCLA retired his No. 5 jersey, a rare honor at the university.
Easley leaves behind his wife, Gail, and their three children: son Kendrick and daughters Gabrielle Manhertz and Giordanna. His legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements; he is remembered as a trailblazer and a fierce competitor who helped define the Seattle Seahawks’ defensive identity.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s announcement of Easley’s passing marks the end of an era for a player who made a lasting impact on both college and professional football. His career, though shortened by illness, remains a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination. Fans and teammates alike mourn his loss and celebrate his life and contributions to the sport.
Easley’s story is one of resilience and excellence, from his dominance at UCLA to his rise as a defensive superstar in the NFL. His name is forever etched in Seahawks history and the broader football community, a symbol of the grit and passion that embody the game.
As the football world reflects on Easley’s passing, many remember his fearless play, leadership on and off the field, and the grace with which he handled adversity. His impact will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.
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