Legendary Denver Broncos Wide Receiver Lionel Taylor Passes Away at 89
The Denver Broncos mourn the loss of legendary wide receiver Lionel Taylor, who passed away at the age of 89 on August 6, as announced by the team on Wednesday. Taylor was not only one of the original Broncos but also one of the most influential players of his time, making a significant mark on the franchise during his seven-season tenure in Denver from 1960 to 1966. "Our hearts go out to Taylor’s family and friends," the team expressed in their heartfelt tribute.
Throughout his remarkable career, Taylor set records that stood the test of time. He finished his time in Denver as the all-time leader in receptions with 543, receiving yards at 6,872, and touchdown receptions with 44. These records remained unchallenged for over 30 years, and he still ranks among the top five in all three categories today.
In a groundbreaking achievement, Taylor became the first receiver in AFL or NFL history to record over 100 receptions in a single season. During his first six seasons, he never caught fewer than 76 passes and averaged more than 80 catches per year. His impressive average of 84.7 receptions per season from 1960 to 1965 marked the highest six-year total in football history at that time. During this period, he led the AFL/NFL in receptions with 508, ranked third in receiving yards with 6,424, and placed eighth in touchdown receptions with 43.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the team, Taylor was one of the inaugural inductees into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 1984.
After his playing days, Taylor transitioned into coaching, serving as the wide receivers coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers for seven seasons, where he earned two Super Bowl rings and mentored Hall of Fame receivers Lynn Swann and John Stallworth. He also held roles as both the wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams.
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Jackson Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital, with previous experience at ESPN and Business Insider. He has covered major events like the Super Bowl and NBA Finals and has interviewed renowned sports figures including Usain Bolt, Rob Gronkowski, Jerry Rice, Troy Aikman, Mike Trout, David Ortiz, and Roger Clemens.
