Kenny Easley, a celebrated safety with a distinguished career at UCLA and the Seattle Seahawks, has passed away at the age of 66. His family confirmed that he died on March 15, 2024, although no cause of death has been publicly disclosed. The Pro Football Hall of Fame, where Easley was inducted in 2017, acknowledged his passing with deep sorrow.
The Seattle Seahawks issued a heartfelt statement, describing Easley as a “beloved and inspirational member of the franchise.” They noted, “Kenny embodied what it meant to be a Seahawk through his leadership, toughness, intensity, and fearlessness.” This tribute reflects the profound impact he had on both the team and its fans.
From High School Star to NFL Great
Easley’s football journey began at Oscar F. Smith High School in South Norfolk, Virginia, where he made history as the first player in the state to rush and pass for over 1,000 yards in a single season. His remarkable talent caught the attention of UCLA head coach Terry Donahue, who recruited him to join the Bruins.
At UCLA, Easley flourished as a three-time consensus All-American from 1977 to 1980. He earned the nickname “The Enforcer” for his aggressive playing style and was the first player in Pac-10 history to achieve four All-Pac-10 first-team selections. Easley still holds the UCLA record for career interceptions with 19, demonstrating his exceptional ability on the field.
The Seattle Seahawks drafted Easley fourth overall in the 1981 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he recorded 107 tackles and three interceptions, earning the title of AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year. His impressive performance continued, culminating in a career-best 10 interceptions in 1984, which led to him being named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press.
Legacy and Challenges
Over his seven seasons in Seattle, Easley established himself as one of the NFL’s premier safeties. He was selected to five Pro Bowls and was a four-time All-Pro first-team player, finishing his career with 498 tackles, eight sacks, 10 forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries, and 32 interceptions. Notably, he became a defining figure in Seahawks history, earning a place in the team’s Ring of Honor in 2002.
Easley’s career took a challenging turn in 1988 when he was diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, a severe kidney disease that ultimately forced him into early retirement. After a failed physical with the Phoenix Cardinals, where he was traded following the 1987 season, Easley alleged that the painkillers he took during his career contributed to his kidney issues. This led to a lawsuit against the Seahawks, which was settled out of court.
Despite these challenges, Easley’s relationship with the Seahawks improved over time, and he was honored in various ways, including the retirement of his jersey number, 45. He was also inducted into the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame and the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame in 1991, solidifying his legacy in college football.
Easley is survived by his wife, Gail Easley, and their children, Kendrick, Gabrielle, and Giordanna. His contributions to the sport and the lives he touched will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
