Date of Birth: February 4, 1959
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Biography
Lawrence Julius Taylor, often referred to as “L.T.”, is widely considered one of the greatest American football players of all time. Born on February 4, 1959, in Williamsburg, Virginia, Taylor played his entire professional career as a linebacker for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Giants as the second overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft and quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive, game-changing style of play. Taylor’s impact on the field was immediate; he earned the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in his first season and went on to be named NFL Defensive Player of the Year three times (1981, 1982, 1986). Taylor was instrumental in leading the Giants to Super Bowl victories in Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV. His career was marked by numerous accolades, including 10 Pro Bowl selections and being named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team. Despite facing numerous off-the-field issues, including battles with substance abuse, Taylor’s on-field achievements earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
5 Interesting Facts about Lawrence Taylor
1. Lawrence Taylor is one of only two defensive players to have won the NFL MVP award, achieving this in 1986.
2. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility in 1999.
3. Taylor was a key player in two Super Bowl-winning teams with the New York Giants (Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV).
4. He revolutionized the outside linebacker position, making the role pivotal in defensive strategies across the NFL.
5. Taylor battled substance abuse issues throughout his career but has been open about his struggles and recovery efforts in his post-NFL life.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lawrence Taylor
1. “You try to bring out the best in yourself so you can bring out the best in your team.”
2. “I don’t play for the records. I play for the moment.”
3. “I was a natural athlete, a gifted athlete. I was able to get by on just natural talent for a long time.”
4. “The first time I stepped on an NFL field, I felt like I was home.”
5. “Every day of my life has been a battle.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Lawrence Taylor’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Lawrence Taylor has three children: Lawrence Taylor Jr., Paula Taylor, and Brandon Taylor.
Relevant Links
1. [Pro Football Hall of Fame Profile](https://www.profootballhof.com/players/lawrence-taylor/
2. [NFL Career Stats](https://www.nfl.com/players/lawrence-taylor/stats/
3. [New York Giants Bio](https://www.giants.com/team/front-office-roster/lawrence-taylor
4. [ESPN Player Profile](https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/12345/lawrence-taylor
5. [Biography on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Lawrence-Taylor