Saturday brought sad news as it was learned that legendary Seattle Seahawks safety Kenny Easley passed away.
Easley, aka “The Enforcer”, was a hard-hitting safety for Seattle for seven years, roaming the Seahawks’ secondary from 1981 to 1987, instilling fear in receivers who dared to cross the middle.
He was a 5x Pro Bowler and 3x All-Pro player who won the 1984 Defensive Player of the Year when he had a league high 10 interceptions and 2 TDs
Unfortunately, his brilliant career was cut short due to kidney failure, but nothing could take away from what he gave to his team and fans during his time on the field.
“Kenny always gave his all and held the game and his life to the highest standard,” said his wife, Gail.
Easley, a 3x consensus All-American at UCLA, was selected fourth overall by Seattle in the 1981 NFL Draft, and became of the greatest safeties in both team and league history.
He made the All-Rookie Team that year and finished his career with 498 tackles, 10 forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries, 8 sacks and 32 INTs. He also made the NFL 1980 All-Decade Team.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Seahawks Legend Kenny Easley,” said the Seahawks in a statement. “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 the best players of all-time.”
