R.I.P.

Former NFL Star Dennis Byrd Killed in Car Crash

Had learned to walk again after 1992 neck injury left him paralyzed.

Former NFL defensive lineman Dennis Byrd was killed in a car accident on Saturday, authorities in Oklahoma said. The 51-year-old was in a two-vehicle collision on Oklahoma 88 and was pronounced dead at the scene after another car veered into his lane. A 12-year-old passenger in his vehicle was reported in critical condition, as was the 17-year-old driver of the other vehicle, authorities said. Byrd’s career with the New York Jets was cut short in 1992 when he broke his neck in a game against Kansas City. He was left paralyzed and never fully recovered, though he did manage to walk again after major rehabilitation efforts. His No. 90 was retired after his injury, making him only the fifth player to take his number with him when he left the sport.