Lawrence Taylor

LT portrait

Lawrence Taylor signing autographs in Jan 2014

Lawrence Julius Taylor (born February 4, 1959), nicknamed "L.T.", is a former American football linebacker who played his entire professional career in the National Football League (NFL) with the New York Giants. Taylor is considered one of the greatest defensive players in the history of the NFL and has been credited with redefining the position of outside linebacker.

Early Life

Born in Williamsburg, Virginia, Taylor was an accomplished athlete in high school, participating in both football and track and field. Despite his athletic prowess, he did not start playing football until his junior year at Lafayette High School. His performance on the field quickly garnered attention, leading to a scholarship offer from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), where he played for the Tar Heels.

College Career

At UNC, Taylor was a standout player, earning All-American honors and setting numerous school records. His aggressive and instinctive style of play transformed him into one of the most feared linebackers in college football.

Professional Career

Taylor was selected by the New York Giants as the second overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact in the league, earning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Over his career, Taylor was named to ten Pro Bowls, won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times, and was a key player in the Giants' victories in Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV. His ability to disrupt the offense, combined with his speed and strength, changed the way opposing teams planned their offensive game.

Legacy

Taylor's legacy in the NFL is marked by his revolutionary play and the impact he had on the game. He is credited with changing the way linebackers play the position, as well as influencing defensive schemes and offensive line play. In 1999, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Personal Life and Controversies

Off the field, Taylor's life has been marked by personal struggles, including issues with substance abuse and legal troubles. Despite these challenges, he remains a beloved figure among Giants fans and is celebrated for his contributions to the team and the league.

Post-Retirement

Since retiring from professional football, Taylor has worked as a sports analyst and pursued various business ventures. He has also made appearances in films and television, showcasing his personality beyond the football field.

See Also

• List of NFL players by Pro Bowl selections
• New York Giants franchise history
• Pro Football Hall of Fame