Remembering Lionel Taylor: A Broncos Legend Passes Away at 89

On August 6, 2023, the sports world mourned the loss of Lionel Taylor, an original player for the Denver Broncos and a member of the prestigious Ring of Fame. He was 89 years old.

A Pioneer in Professional Football

Lionel Taylor made history as a member of the 1960 Broncos, the inaugural squad of the American Football League (AFL). His career achievements set numerous benchmarks in professional football:

• First Receiver to Achieve 100 Receptions in a Single Season: Taylor was the first player in professional football history to record this milestone.
• Franchise Records: He ended his seven-season career in Denver with:
  • 543 Receptions
  • 6,872 Receiving Yards
  • 44 Touchdown Catches

Notably, these records stood for over 30 years, showcasing his exceptional talent and impact on the game. Even years later, he remains in the franchise’s top five in all three categories.

Coaching Tenure with the Steelers

After his playing days, Taylor transitioned into coaching, becoming a two-time Super Bowl-winning wide receiver coach with the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970s under legendary coach Chuck Noll. His coaching acumen helped mold future NFL stars, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

The Impact of Lionel Taylor

In a heartfelt statement, the Broncos expressed their condolences on social media, stating:

“We are saddened to learn of the passing of #BroncosROF wide receiver Lionel Taylor. An original Bronco and one of the most dominant players of his era, Taylor had a tremendous impact on the franchise during his seven seasons in Denver (1960-66). Our hearts go out to Taylor’s family and friends.”

Career Highlights

• Beginnings with the Bears: Taylor started his football career as a linebacker with the Chicago Bears before transitioning to offense and joining the Broncos.
• Retirement: He ended his playing career after two seasons with the Houston Oilers, concluding his impact on the game with two important franchises.

Quotes from Experts

AFL historian and author Dave Steidel described Taylor’s catching ability:

“This was a guy [who had] hands like vice grips. If a pass was near him, he was getting it. He caught double-digit passes [per game]. Nobody was catching 10, 11, 12 in a game back then in either league.”

Legacy and Recognition

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Lionel Taylor was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 1984. His legacy as a pioneer in the game and an outstanding athlete continues to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.

Conclusion

Lionel Taylor’s remarkable journey from player to coach, paired with his impressive statistical records and accolades, has left an indelible mark on the Denver Broncos and the sport of football. His commitment and skill remain a benchmark for current and aspiring athletes, ensuring that his memory will endure far into the future.

For more information on the history and legacy of the Denver Broncos, visit the official Denver Broncos website.