Coy Bacon

Coy Bacon was a professional football player in the National Football League. Bacon died at the age of 66 at his Ironton, Ohio home on December 22, 2008.

Lander McCoy Bacon was born on August 30, 1943 in Cadiz, Kentucky. He attended continued his education at Jackson State University. Bacon made his NFL debut in 1968.Pro-Football-Reference.com: Coy Bacon

Bacon was a pass-rushing defensive lineman in the NFL who started his career with the Los Angeles Rams. In 1973, he was traded to the San Diego Chargers, then eventually to the Cincinnati Bengals. Bacon spent his most productive seasons with the Bengals in 1976 and 1977. He was elected to the Pro Bowl in both of those seasons. As of 2008, he has held the Bengals franchise record for most sacks in one season with 22. He finished his career with the Washington Redskins. After 14 years in the NFL, Bacon retired from professional football in 1981.ESPN.com: Pass-rushing DL Coy Bacon dies at 66(December 22, 2008)

"Coy was a tremendous player for the Bengals, the greatest pass rusher our team has ever had. After he left the team, he worked hard to make life better for youths in the Ironton area. What he did was admirable, something all of us respect. We are saddened by his passing." — Mike BrownESPN.com: Pass-rushing DL Coy Bacon dies at 66(December 22, 2008), Cincinnati Bengals owner

• "He was the best pass rusher I ever saw. He always gained ground . . . never wasted any steps. He could make you miss. He had a very nimble body for a guy his size."—Dave LaphamLos Angeles Times: Coy Bacon dies at 66... (December 23, 2008), Bengals radio analyst