Larry Wilson
Inducted:
1978
Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
March 24, 1938
Rigby, Idaho, U.S.
Died:
September 17, 2020
Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.
Position:
Safety
College:
Utah
Larry Wilson became one of the NFL’s most influential safeties, known for his toughness, instincts, and revolutionary style of play. Spending his entire career with the St. Louis Cardinals from 1960 to 1972, Wilson redefined the safety position by attacking the line of scrimmage, jumping routes, and creating turnovers in key moments. He gained national attention for playing through injuries, including intercepting passes with casts on both hands, showcasing unmatched grit and competitive spirit.
Wilson finished his career with more than 50 interceptions and became the emotional leader of the Cardinals’ defense for over a decade. His aggressive approach inspired future generations of defensive backs and helped shape modern safety play. His remarkable career, leadership, and lasting impact led to his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978, securing his place as one of the greatest safeties in league history.
Wilson's Awards and Honors
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1963, 1966–1970)
- Second-team All-Pro (1965)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1962, 1963, 1965–1970)
- Famous for interceptions while playing with casts on both hands
- One of the earliest safeties to consistently blitz and attack the run
- Among the highest interception totals of his era
NFL Records
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1966)
- NFL interceptions leader (1966)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
St. Louis Cardinals (1960–1972)
NFL Draft:
1960: 7th round, 74th overall pick
St. Louis Cardinals
Number Worn:
8
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1960–1972)
Games Played:
169
Game Started:
163
Interceptions:
52
Interception yards:
800
Fumble recoveries:
14
Safeties:
1
Total touchdowns:
8
