GALLERY_80sDefense

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Dan Hampton, who was only the second Chicago Bears player to have his career span three different decades, was nicknamed “Danimal” in reference to his ferocious and animal-like attack on defense.

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In 1980 Lester Hayes led the NFL with 13 interceptions, the second most in league history. His total would have even been higher had not four picks been nullified by penalties.

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In an example of Ronnie Lott’s heart and dedication to the game, he once had had part of his little finger amputated so that he could play rather than have season-ending surgery to repair the injury.

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Known as “LT” for his flashy personality, Lawrence Taylor was a first-team All-Pro selection his first nine years in the NFL and a three-time Defensive Player of the Year recipient.

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NFL'S ALL-DECADE TEAM OF THE 1980s - DEFENSE. Reggie White, who began his career in the USFL, was voted to NFL’s 75th Anniversary Team, and was voted first-team All-Pro 10 times in his 15-year career.