LeRoy Irvin's journey in professional football began when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the third round of the 1980 NFL Draft. A cornerback by trade, Irvin quickly established himself as a valuable asset to the Rams' defensive lineup. His speed and agility on the field were evident from the start, and he soon became known for his ability to read the game and anticipate the moves of opposing players.
Irvin's rookie season set the tone for what would be a remarkable career. He made an immediate impact with his defensive skills, contributing to the Rams' secondary with his knack for intercepting passes and breaking up plays. His performance on special teams was equally impressive, particularly as a punt returner. In fact, Irvin set an NFL record for most punt return yards in a single game with 207 yards against the Atlanta Falcons in 1981, a record that stood for nearly two decades.
Throughout his tenure with the Rams, Irvin was selected to the Pro Bowl twice, in 1985 and 1986, a testament to his skill and consistency on the field. His ability to perform under pressure and his knack for making game-changing plays earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike. Irvin's career with the Rams spanned a decade, during which he played in 128 games and recorded 35 interceptions, returning three for touchdowns.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Irvin was known for his contributions on special teams. His punt return abilities added another dimension to his game, making him a dual threat on the field. His record-setting performance in 1981 was just one example of his ability to change the momentum of a game with a single play.
After his time with the Rams, Irvin spent a brief period with the Detroit Lions in 1990. Although his stint with the Lions was short-lived, it added another chapter to his professional career. Following his retirement from the NFL, Irvin's legacy continued to be remembered by fans and analysts who appreciated his contributions to the game.
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