Iconic Athlete #7: Lawrence Taylor

Known for his size and speed, legendary linebacker Lawrence Julius Taylor preferred baseball to the game that would put him on the map -- at least as a young teen. Now considered one of the greatest linebackers ever to play football, Taylor's life has been peppered with the kinds of highs most of us only dream about and the types of lows that give nothing but nightmares. Unquestionably one of the game's greats, this is his story.

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A Late Bloomer Gets His Start  

One of three brothers born into a middle-class family, Taylor was full of mischief and was the most difficult of the three boys his parents raised. He channeled his energy and rebellious spirit into baseball, gravitating to the position of catcher. Taylor's size and brute strength made it clear from the start that football might be a better match for his abilities, so he turned his attention to football as a high-school junior. He was not widely recruited due to his late start, but ultimately landed at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he played as a defensive lineman. Taylor became captain of the team and switched to linebacker within two years, setting multiple defensive records. His playing style reflected his personality, leading him to take chances on the field and cultivating an audacious recklessness which would serve him, and his team, well.

New York Calls

Taylor was drafted into the National Football League in 1981 by the New York Giants, who would remain his team for the duration of his professional career. Taylor's reputation of playing hard football started early in training camp, and earned him the nickname "Superman" amongst his teammates. His speed was remarkable, particularly when coupled with his formidable size and relentless, powerful style.

Early Career

Taylor's first regular-season game saw the Giants los to the Philadelphia Eagles. That first loss did not earmark his rookie season, which is still considered one of the best in NFL history. Taylor, named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, was on his way to redefining the outside linebacker position, and some would say, football itself. Despite his accolades, Taylor took chances and played recklessly both on and off the field, narrowly surviving a car crash caused by him speeding behind the wheel.

A Seasoned Pro, A Troubled Life

Taylor's legend continued to grow, culminating in a sensational 1986 season. That year he finished with 105 tackles and 20.5 sacks, and he was the first defensive player in over 15 year to be named MVP of the NFL. Taylor was also named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team. He seemed to know no pain, playing through injuries both minor and severe.

It seemed that Taylor had it all, but off the field trouble followed him. Alcohol and drug abuse were constant themes throughout his tenure with the Giants. Other allegations plagued him after retirement, including drug charges, tax evasion, leaving the scene of a car accident, soliciting prostitution and third-degree rape.

Taylor's last game, in 1994, was a loss to the San Francisco 49ers. A crying Taylor decided it was time to quit. A true legend, he ended his career with 1,088 tackles, 132.5 sacks, nine interceptions, 134 return yards, two touchdowns, 33 forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries and 34 fumble return yards. Taylor's 13 years as a Giant earned him two Super Bowl titles, in 1987 and 1991, and enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

One of football's bad boys, Taylor remains a legend of the game. He is the father of four children and now lives in Florida.

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Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.