Challenges Faced by Lawrence Taylor: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 14, 2025

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Lawrence Taylor. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Lawrence Taylor, known as L.T., is a retired American football linebacker who played 13 seasons in the NFL, all with the New York Giants. Widely considered the greatest defensive player in football history, Taylor revolutionized the linebacker position with his exceptional speed, strength, and disruptive pass-rushing abilities. His impact on the game is undeniable, influencing defensive strategies and setting a new standard for linebackers.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1981: Drug Use

During his professional rookie season in 1981, Lawrence Taylor began using illicit drugs.

1982: Drug Use

During 1982, Lawrence Taylor routinely obtained his teammates' urine to submit as his own urine samples.

1983: Training Camp Holdout

In 1983, Lawrence Taylor engaged in a training camp holdout that lasted three weeks.

1983: Injured against the Eagles

In a 1983 game against the Eagles, Lawrence Taylor was so injured that the team's training staff had to hide his helmet to prevent him from returning to the field.

1985: Sack Ends Theismann's Career

In 1985, Lawrence Taylor's sack of Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann resulted in a compound fracture of Theismann's right leg, ending Theismann's career.

1987: Positive Drug Test

In 1987, Lawrence Taylor tested positive for cocaine and admitted to using it.

1987: Strike Shortened Season and Picket Line Controversy

In the strike-shortened 1987 season, the Giants struggled, falling to 6-9. Lawrence Taylor caused strife by crossing the picket line, citing financial reasons. He led the team in sacks with 12 but missed a game due to a hamstring injury.

1988: Suspension

In 1988, Lawrence Taylor failed a second drug test, leading to a 30-day suspension by the NFL.

1988: Suspension for Substance Abuse

In 1988, Lawrence Taylor tested positive for cocaine and was suspended by the NFL for thirty days, marking his second violation of the league's substance abuse policy. He entered rehab and returned to lead the team in sacks with 15.5. In a game against the New Orleans Saints, Taylor played through a torn pectoral muscle.

1989: Season with Fractured Tibia

In 1989, Lawrence Taylor recorded 15 sacks but played the latter part of the season with a fractured tibia. Despite off-the-field issues, he was voted defensive co-captain. The Giants went 12-4 but were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Rams.

1990: Contract Dispute, Super Bowl Victory

In 1990, Lawrence Taylor held out of training camp demanding a new contract, eventually signing a three-year $5 million contract. He recorded 10.5 sacks and earned his 10th Pro Bowl selection. The Giants went 13-3 and won Super Bowl XXV against the Buffalo Bills 20-19.

1991: Decline in Production

In 1991, Lawrence Taylor's production declined, and it was the first season in his career in which he did not make the Pro Bowl squad. He finished with 7 sacks.

November 8, 1992: Ruptured Achilles Tendon

On November 8, 1992, Lawrence Taylor suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in a game against Green Bay, sidelining him for the final seven games of the season.