Lyle Alzado was a former NFL defensive linesman who played for the Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, and Denver Broncos from 1971 to 1991. During his illustrious career, he achieved numerous prestigious honors, including being named ABC's 1977 Defensive Player of the Year and Defensive Linesman of the Year.
Alzado was a key player in the Los Angeles Raiders' Super Bowl victory over the Washington Redskins in 1983. He even dabbled in professional boxing, fighting eight rounds in an exhibition match with Muhammad Ali. At his peak, Alzado stood at an impressive 6'3" and weighed around 255 pounds.
However, his later years were marred by a failed comeback attempt to the NFL in 1991, which led to his admission of long-term steroid abuse. Despite his tough-guy image, Alzado had a lighter side and appeared in various movies, television shows, and commercials.
He played tough-guy roles in films such as Ernest Goes to Camp (1987),Destroyer (1988),Shocktroop (1988),and Comrades in Arms (1991). Alzado also showcased his sense of humor when he appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1986 and responded to Carson's jabs by saying, "I can still kick your a--".
Alzado's life took a tragic turn when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, which he believed was caused by his steroid abuse. Despite never drinking, smoking, or using recreational drugs, he acknowledged that steroids were the only questionable substance he had ever used.
In a remarkable display of courage, Alzado came clean about his steroid abuse and used his experience to try and prevent younger people from making the same mistakes. He passed away at the age of 43 on May 14th, 1992, at his home in Portland, Oregon.
