Former Los Angeles Rams cornerback LeRoy Irvin, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the franchise’s standout defensive players of the 1980s, has died at the age of 68.
The heartbreaking news was shared Thursday by Irvin’s former teammate and Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson, who said he was devastated by the loss.
Dickerson played alongside Irvin for five seasons during his legendary Rams career and remembered him as much more than a great football 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,” Dickerson wrote on Instagram.
“Rest in peace, my brother. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation.”
Dickerson also shared a photo of himself smiling with Irvin at an event hosted by the Eric Dickerson Foundation.
Irvin began his NFL career in 1980 after the Rams selected him with the 70th overall pick in the draft.
He spent 10 seasons with Los Angeles, appearing in 104 starts and establishing himself as one of the league’s most dangerous defensive backs.
Irvin finished his Rams career with 35 interceptions before playing one final season with the Detroit Lions.
During his time in the NFL, he earned two Pro Bowl selections and was named an All-Pro twice.
The exact circumstances surrounding Irvin’s death were not officially disclosed.
However, Los Angeles journalist Eric Geller, who worked with Irvin after his retirement from football, said the former Rams star had been battling throat cancer.
“Extremely sad day — especially in the #RamsHouse,” 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.”
Geller said he would always remember Irvin’s unmistakable voice and sense of humor.
“I will miss that raspy voice and that sense of humor that made me smile and laugh whenever we met up at some Rams function,” he wrote. “R.I.P. LeRoy!”
Irvin’s death is a major loss for the Rams community, where he remained a beloved figure long after his playing days ended.