Darryl Talley is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 14 seasons. He was born on July 10, 1960, in Cleveland, Ohio, and attended West Virginia University, where he played college football.
Talley was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round of the 1983 NFL Draft. He quickly became a key player on the Bills' defense, known for his toughness, versatility, and leadership. He played in four consecutive Super Bowls with the Bills from 1990 to 1993, although the team lost all four games.
During his career, Talley was known for his ability to play multiple positions on defense, including linebacker, defensive end, and defensive tackle. He was also a strong special teams player, often serving as the Bills' long snapper.
Talley was a consistent performer throughout his career, earning Pro Bowl honors in 1990 and 1991. He was also named to the All-Pro team in 1990 and was a two-time recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award, given to players who demonstrate courage and sportsmanship.
Off the field, Talley was known for his charitable work and community involvement. He founded the Darryl Talley Foundation, which provides support to families affected by childhood illnesses, and was active in a number of other charitable organizations.
After retiring from the NFL in 1996, Talley struggled with a number of health issues, including depression, chronic pain, and memory loss. He has been an advocate for better support and care for retired NFL players, particularly those dealing with health issues related to their playing careers.
Despite these challenges, Talley remains a beloved figure in Buffalo and among Bills fans. In 2018, he was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, and his number 56 was retired by the Bills in 2020.
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