Kenny Easley, Seahawks Hall of Fame Safety, Passes Away at 66

Why this matters: Easley’s impact on the Seahawks and the NFL is significant, representing a golden era for Seattle football. His passing marks the loss of a transformative player and leader.

Kenny Easley, drafted fourth overall by the Seahawks in 1981, quickly became the cornerstone of their defense. His aggressive play and exceptional ball skills earned him numerous accolades and helped define the Seahawks in the 1980s.

Easley’s career highlights include leading the league in interceptions in 1984 and being named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. However, his career was prematurely ended by a kidney ailment, leading to a trade to the Arizona Cardinals that was ultimately voided.

Despite the bitter end to his playing days, Easley eventually reconciled with the Seahawks, entering their Ring of Honor in 2002. His Hall of Fame induction in 2017 solidified his legacy as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history.

After football, Easley engaged in business ventures, including owning a Cadillac dealership and working in commercial real estate. He also co-owned the Norfolk Nighthawks of the Arena Football League 2.

Easley was a Hall of Fame inductee, five-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, and 1984 Defensive Player of the Year.

A kidney condition, allegedly related to painkiller use, led to the end of his NFL career at age 28.

He was inducted in 2017.

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