Lawrence Taylor

The greatest defensive player of all time, L.T. revolutionized the linebacker position.

Lawrence Julius Taylor (born February 4, 1959), nicknamed "L.T.", is an American former professional football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 13 seasons with the New York Giants. He is widely regarded as the greatest defensive player of all time – and considered by some as the best football player ever.

Quick Facts

Position: Linebacker
Born: 4 February 1959
Birthplace: Williamsburg, Virginia, U.S.
High school: Lafayette (Williamsburg)
College: North Carolina (1977–1980)
Draft year: 1981
Draft round: 1
Draft pick: 2

Lore & Background

Taylor was selected by the Giants second overall in the 1981 NFL draft. He was named both the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1981 and the only NFL player to win the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in his rookie season. Taylor produced double-digit sacks each season from 1984 through 1990, including a career-high of 20.5 in 1986. He won a record three AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards (since tied by J. J. Watt and Aaron Donald), and was named the league's Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 1986 season. He and Alan Page (1971) are the only defensive players in league history to earn the award. Taylor was named First-team All-Pro in eight of his first ten seasons, and Second-team All-Pro in the other two. He was a key member of the Giants' defense, nicknamed the "Big Blue Wrecking Crew", that led New York to victories in Super Bowls XXI and XXV.

Reader's Guide

Taylor has lived a controversial lifestyle, during and after his playing career. He admitted to using drugs such as cocaine as early as his second year in the NFL, and was suspended for 30 days in 1988 by the league for failing drug tests. His drug abuse escalated after his retirement, and he was jailed three times for attempted drug possession. From 1998 to 2009, Taylor claims to have lived a sober, drug-free life. He worked as a color commentator on sporting events after his retirement, and pursued a career as an actor. His personal life came under public scrutiny in 2010 when he was arrested for the statutory rape of a 16-year-old girl. After he pleaded guilty to sexual misconduct and patronizing a prostitute, Taylor was registered as a low-risk sex offender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Lawrence Taylor?

Lawrence Julius 'L.T.' Taylor was an outside linebacker who played his entire 13-season NFL career with the New York Giants after being drafted second overall in 1981. He remains one of the most dominant defensive players in history, known for revolutionizing how the game is played on defense.

What made Lawrence Taylor so special on the field?

Taylor was a disruptive force who forced opposing teams to completely alter their offensive formations and pass-rushing schemes just to account for his presence. His ability to pressure quarterbacks from the outside linebacker position changed defensive strategies across the entire league.

What are Lawrence Taylor's biggest career achievements?

He led the Giants to victories in Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV while earning NFL MVP honors in 1986, a rare feat for a defensive player. Additionally, he became the only defensive player ever to win AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year as a rookie.

What happened to Lawrence Taylor's jersey number?

The New York Giants retired his iconic number 56 in honor of his legendary contributions and status as a franchise icon. No other player is permitted to wear that number for the team, ensuring his legacy remains unique within the organization.