Former Jets defensive lineman Dennis Byrd killed in car crash

Byrd, 50, famously regained the ability to walk after being told by doctors he'd never walk again

Former New York Jets defensive lineman Dennis Byrd died Saturday evening.

Byrd was involved in a two-vehicle car crash on a highway north of Claremore, Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol told Tulsa World. Byrd had played his college football at Tulsa (which is located about 30 miles from Claremore) and is a member of the school's Hall of Fame.

Per the police report, a 17-year-old driver from Claremore veered his Ford Explorer into the oncoming lane, and collided with Byrd's vehicle. Byrd was pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were taken to a local hospital in critical condition.

Byrd rose to fame when, in 1992 after suffering a serious neck injury and being told he would likely never walk again, he recovered the ability to walk within weeks. Byrd suffered the injury while attempting to sack the quarterback, who avoided his hit. Byrd collided with his teammate and suffered a broken C-5 vertebra, which left him temporarily unable to walk.

A broken neck ended Byrd's playing career in 1992. USATSI

He recovered within a few weeks and was an honorary captain at the team's season opener in 1993. The Jets awarded him with their Most Inspirational Player award, and named the award after him. No Jets played has worn his No. 90 jersey since 1992, and it was officially retired in 2012.

Byrd's post-NFL career included an autobiography and a TV movie about his life, as well as high school coaching jobs in and around the Tulsa area.

Byrd is survived by his wife, Angela, and their four children. He was 50 years old.

CBS Sports Writer

Jared Dubin is a New York lawyer and writer. He joined CBSSports.com in 2014 and has since spent far too much of his time watching film and working in spreadsheets. Full Bio

CBS Sports Store
NFL Nike Gear
More NFL Sports Gear
Our Latest Stories