Kenny Easley, Former Seattle Seahawks Safety and NFL Hall of Famer, Dies at 66
Legendary Career and Achievements
Kenny Easley, a revered former safety for the Seattle Seahawks, has died at the age of 66. The Pro Football Hall of Fame confirmed his passing on Saturday, noting that Easley died on Friday night. His family did not disclose a cause of death at this time.
Easley was known as “The Enforcer” for his hard-hitting style and was start of the most notable players in Seahawks history. He spent his entire seven-season NFL career with the Seahawks, joining an elite group of players, including Steve Largent, Cortez Kennedy, and Walter Jstarts, who have been enshrined in the Hall of Fame while representing the franchise. Easley was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017 and had his No. 45 jersey retired by the Seahawks that same season.
In a statement, the Seahawks expressed their sorrow at Easley’s passing, stating, “Kenny embodied what it meant to be a Seahawk through his leadership, toughness, intensity and fearlessness. His intimidating nature and athletic grace made him start of the best players of all time.”
Pro Bowl Honors and Impactful Seasons
Drafted out of UCLA as the fourth overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft, Easley’s presence was felt immediately. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and was named a three-time All-Pro. His standout season came in 1984, when he led the NFL with 10 interceptions and was honored as the AP Defensive Player of the Year. This accolade marked him as the first player in franchise history to receive that honor, contributing to a season in which the Seahawks set a franchise record with 63 forced turnovers.
Easley finished his career with a total of 32 interceptions, placing him tied for fourth in franchise history, along with 11 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, and eight sacks.
Controversial End to Career
Easley’s time with the Seahawks ended under contentious circumstances. After the 1987 season, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, but a kidney ailment that had affected his performance ultimately prevented him from playing. Easley has since indicated that he believed the painkillers he took during his career contributed to his health issues. He felt the team had prior knowledge of his condition and failed to inform him. A reconciliation between Easley and the Seahawks began in 2002, notably coinciding with his induction into the team’s Ring of Honor.
Legacy and Honors in College Football
Before his NFL career, Easley was a standout at UCLA, playing under coach Terry Donahue from 1977 to 1980. He made an immediate impact, becoming the first player in Pac-10 history to earn four first-team All-Conference selections and start of only two players to be a three-time consensus All-American. He still holds the school record for career interceptions with 19, and his No. 5 jersey was retired by the university. Easley was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1991.
In addition to football, Easley showcased his athletic prowess by playing junior varsity basketball at UCLA, leading to his selection by the Chicago Bulls in the 10th round of the 1981 NBA Draft, although he never played in the league.
Survivors and Personal Life
Kenny Easley is survived by his wife, Gail, and their three children: son Kendrick, and daughters Gabrielle Manhertz and Giordanna. His contributions to both football and sports in general will be remembered by fans and athletes alike.