Lionel Taylor, who had a record-setting playing career with the Denver Broncos and also became the first Black coordinator in NFL history, has died at age 89.

HOUSTON - Lionel Taylor, the former head football coach of Texas Southern and a pioneer in the NFL, has passed away at the age of 89. He died on August 6, 2025, at his home near Albuquerque, New Mexico, after experiencing a period of declining health.

Lionel Taylor, a four-time All-Pro and a trailblazer as an NFL assistant coach, died on Aug. 6 at the age of 89, the Broncos announced on Wednesday.