Ken Lanier's journey in professional football is marked by his tenure as an offensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 8, 1959, in Columbus, Ohio, Lanier attended the Ohio State University, where he played college football for the Buckeyes. His performance at Ohio State caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the 1981 NFL Draft.
Lanier was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round as the 125th overall pick. He quickly became an integral part of the Broncos' offensive line. Known for his size and strength, Lanier played the position of right tackle, where he was responsible for protecting the quarterback and opening up lanes for the running game. His role was crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of the Broncos' offensive strategies.
Throughout his career with the Broncos, Lanier was known for his durability and consistency. He played in 177 games, starting in 165 of them, which is a testament to his reliability on the field. Lanier's ability to maintain a high level of performance over the years made him a staple in the Broncos' lineup. His presence on the offensive line helped the team achieve several successful seasons, including multiple playoff appearances.
One of the highlights of Lanier's career was his participation in three Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos. Although the team did not secure a victory in these championship games, reaching the Super Bowl is a significant achievement in itself. Lanier's efforts in these high-stakes games demonstrated his capability to perform under pressure.
In addition to his time with the Broncos, Lanier also had a brief stint with the Los Angeles Raiders. However, his legacy is most closely associated with his years in Denver, where he spent the majority of his professional career. His tenure with the Broncos is remembered by fans and teammates alike for his steadfast presence on the offensive line.
After retiring from professional football, Lanier's contributions to the game continued to be recognized by those who followed his career.
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