Lawrence Taylor, the NFL's greatest defensive player of all time, left an indelible mark on the field with his unmatched tenacity. As a linebacker and edge rusher for the New York Giants during his 13-year career, Taylor led the team to two Super Bowls and achieved numerous accolades.
With 142 sacks, Taylor holds the record as New York's all-time sack leader. He was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1981, won Defensive Player of the Year three times (1981, 1982, 1986), earned the league MVP title in 1986, and was selected for the All-Pro team and Pro Bowl ten times each. Undoubtedly, Taylor's name is synonymous with greatness.
However, Micah Parsons, the rising star of the Dallas Cowboys, is determined to carve his own path to greatness. Parsons, often compared to Taylor, has expressed his aspirations to be the best in the game. At a recent celebrity golf game in Hershey, Taylor praised the young phenom, acknowledging his talent and potential.
"I think he's a good player," Taylor stated. "Hopefully he'll stay healthy and can have a great career. Who's the best, who's not the best... Nobody gives a [expletive] about that no more. But, um, he's a good player, and I think he's good for that team. A lot of excitement."
Parsons has already proven himself as one of the best in today's game. In his rookie season, the Harrisburg native recorded an impressive 84 tackles and set a franchise record with 13 sacks, earning him the title of Defensive Rookie of the Year. He continued to shine in his second year, tallying 65 tackles and 13.5 sacks.
With his dedication and hard work, Parsons is on track to be remembered as one of the greatest defensive players of all time. His intense off-season training with coach Lance Deane has elevated his speed and strength, evident in the videos he shares on social media.
However, Taylor believes that while Parsons is exceptional, he still has a long way to go before reaching the status of an all-time great. Taylor expressed confidence in Parsons' potential to join the winner's circle, emphasizing the importance of consistency in his performance.
"I think it's too early to put him up on the Hall of Fame pedestal yet," Taylor remarked. "But if he keeps on playing the way he plays, keeps his head straight... You got some good things that are going to happen to him. Everything is predicated on how healthy you stay and how the team is doing, you know? There's going to be ups and downs in his career, so, you gotta see how it goes."
As Micah Parsons continues on his journey, it remains to be seen if he can achieve the greatness that Lawrence Taylor embodied. One thing is certain, though – Parsons is a force to be reckoned with, and his determination and talent may very well lead him to the pinnacle of the sport.
