LeRoy Irvin, Rams All-Pro in 1980s, dies at 68

Field Level Media|published: Thu 2nd July, 15:02 2026

Jun 16, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams former cornerback LeRoy Irvin (47) at NFL All-Access at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

LeRoy Irvin, who spent the 1980s at cornerback for the Los Angeles Rams, has died. He was 68.

The team announced his passing on Thursday with a short statement.

"We mourn the loss of Rams Legend LeRoy Irvin. We extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time," the team said.

No details, such as the date, location or cause of Irvin's death, were shared.

Irvin, who played his college football at Kansas, joined the Rams after they selected him in the third round (70th overall) of the 1980 NFL Draft. He played the entire decade in Los Angeles before concluding his career with the 1990 Detroit Lions.

With the Rams, Irvin played in 143 games (104 starts). He intercepted 34 passes for 654 yards and scored five touchdowns. He also recovered 13 fumbles, returning one for a touchdown.

In Detroit, Irvin started all 16 games, making one interception and forcing a fumble.

Irvin was named a first-team All-Pro in 1981 and 1986. The two-time Pro Bowl selection played in 11 postseason games and nabbed four interceptions for 149 yards.

Pro Football Hall of Fame member Eric Dickerson played four full seasons with Irvin and posted this to social media on Thursday:

"Devastated to hear about the passing of my brother, teammate, and Rams legend Leroy Irvin," Dickerson wrote. "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. Rest in peace, my brother. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Irvin family and all of Rams Nation."

--Field Level Media