Lionel Taylor, the legendary wide receiver whose career helped shape the Denver Broncos franchise, passed away at the age of 89 on Aug. 6, as Fox News reports.
The Denver Broncos organization disclosed the news of Taylor’s passing on a recent Wednesday, marking the end of an era for the team.
Taylor’s significant contribution to the Broncos spanned seven impressive seasons from 1960 to 1966, during which he set records that stood unchallenged for over three decades.
Pro football pioneer remembered
During his tenure with the Broncos, Taylor achieved 543 receptions, 6,872 receiving yards, and 44 touchdown receptions. These figures not only led the team but also remained the highest in the franchise for more than 30 years.
To this day, Taylor remains in the top five for receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions in Denver Broncos history, showcasing his lasting impact on the team.
He notably became the first receiver in both the AFL and the NFL history to catch at least 100 passes in a single season, setting a high standard for future receivers.
Decade of dominance
From 1960 to 1965, no season saw Taylor catch fewer than 76 passes, and he averaged over 80 catches per year. This consistency helped him lead the AFL and NFL in receptions during this period.
His stats from this era include a total of 508 receptions, ranking him third for receiving yards with 6,424 and eighth in touchdown receptions with 43 across the AFL/NFL.
Taylor’s spectacular performance in the early 1960s largely contributed to his selection as one of the first four inductees into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 1984.
From the gridiron to the sidelines
Following his remarkable playing career, Taylor took his expertise to coaching, where he left his mark on the Pittsburgh Steelers as a wide receivers coach for seven seasons.
While coaching for the Steelers, Taylor contributed to the team’s success in winning two Super Bowl rings, and he played a crucial role in developing receiver talents like Hall of Famers Lynn Swann and John Stallworth.
He further extended his coaching prowess as a wide receivers coach and later as an offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, influencing numerous players with his experience and knowledge.
Remembering a legend
In remembering Taylor, the Broncos highlighted his unmatched influence on the franchise during his playing years, describing him as “one of the most dominant players of his era.”
The team expressed deep condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to Taylor’s family and friends,” reflecting the sentiments of the broader football community and fans.
Lionel Taylor not only left a significant mark on the football field but also contributed immensely to the game’s development through his subsequent coaching career, ensuring his legacy will endure in NFL history.
The post Denver Broncos icon Lionel Taylor dies at 89 appeared first on Washington Digest.
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Author: Christina Davie
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