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.

He was signed by the Broncos in 1960 and led the AFL in receiving in five of the league's first six seasons. His 100 receptions in 14 games in 1961 was the first such season in pro football history and was a team record that stood until Rod Smith and Ed McCaffrey each had at least 100 receptions in 2000.