Lawrence Julius Taylor, often referred to as “L.T.,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. Born on February 4, 1959, in Williamsburg, Virginia, Taylor revolutionized the linebacker position during his 13-season career with the New York Giants. After an outstanding college career at the University of North Carolina, Taylor was selected second overall in the 1981 NFL Draft by the Giants. He quickly made an impact, earning both NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors in his debut season, a feat no other player has matched. Known for his relentless pass-rushing ability, Taylor recorded double-digit sacks from 1984 to 1990, including a career-high 20.5 sacks in 1986. That same year, he became one of only two defensive players in NFL history to be named the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). Taylor was instrumental in leading the Giants to victories in Super Bowls XXI and XXV.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Number | 56 |
| Position | Linebacker |
| Born | February 4, 1959 (age 65) |
| Birthplace | Williamsburg, Virginia, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 237 lb (108 kg) |
| High School | Lafayette (Williamsburg, Virginia) |
| College | North Carolina (1977–1980) |
| NFL Draft | 1981 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2 |
| Year | Team | Sacks | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | NYG | 9.5 | 1 |
| 1982 | NYG | 7.5 | 1 |
| 1983 | NYG | 9.0 | 2 |
| 1984 | NYG | 11.5 | 1 |
| 1985 | NYG | 13.0 | 0 |
| 1986 | NYG | 20.5 | 0 |
| 1987 | NYG | 12.0 | 3 |
| 1988 | NYG | 15.5 | 0 |
| 1989 | NYG | 15.0 | 0 |
| 1990 | NYG | 10.5 | 1 |
| 1991 | NYG | 7.0 | 0 |
| 1992 | NYG | 5.0 | 0 |
| 1993 | NYG | 6.0 | 0 |
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