Cortez Kennedy
Inducted:
2012
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
306 lb (139 kg)
Born:
August 23, 1968
Osceola, Arkansas, U.S.
Died:
May 23, 2017
Orlando, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Miami (FL)
Cortez Kennedy was one of the most dominant defensive tackles in NFL history, known for his rare combination of power, quickness, and leadership. Born on August 23, 1968, he spent his entire 11-year career with the Seattle Seahawks from 1990 to 2000. Kennedy quickly established himself as the cornerstone of Seattle’s defense, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors.
In 1992, he was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year, an extraordinary achievement given the Seahawks’ losing record that season—showing just how impactful he was on the field. Over his career, Kennedy recorded 58 sacks and was respected for his relentless work ethic and sportsmanship. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012, he remains one of the greatest defensive linemen in league history.
Kennedy's Awards and Honors
- 8× Pro Bowl Selection (1991–1997, 1999)
- 3× First-Team All-Pro (1992–1994)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1996)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1992)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- Seattle Seahawks Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- Named NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1992) despite team’s 2–14 record
- Played his entire career with Seattle, symbolizing loyalty and consistency
- Recognized as one of the top interior defenders of the 1990s era
NFL Teams
Seattle Seahawks (1990–2000)
NFL Draft:
1990: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Seattle Seahawks
Number Worn:
96, 99
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1990–2000)
Games Played:
167
Game Started:
153
Tackles:
668
Sacks:
58.0
Interceptions:
3
Forced Fumbles:
6
Fumble Recoveries:
11