NFL All-Pro and Washington Commanders legend, Barry Wilburn, tragically died in a house fire in Memphis last week. The Commanders, formerly known as the Redskins during Wilburn's tenure, confirmed the heartbreaking news with a poignant statement. "We're saddened to learn of the passing of former Washington All-Pro and Super Bowl XXII champion Barry Wilburn," the team shared on X. "Sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends."
Local reports indicate that the Memphis Fire Department responded to a call at approximately 2am on Friday morning. Upon arrival, firefighters found the 62-year-old ex-NFL cornerback unresponsive in a rear hallway, and he was declared dead at the scene. Wilburn, a cornerback, played college football at Mississippi before being drafted by Washington in 1985.
He quickly made a name for himself as a defensive powerhouse, leading the NFL in interceptions in 1987, when he played alongside Hall of Famer Darrell Green.
That season, the Redskins clinched the Super Bowl victory, with Wilburn contributing two interceptions to his 20 regular-season catches during the big game. The Redskins triumphed over Denver 42-10 to secure the coveted Vince Lombardi trophy.
Wilburn also had stints with the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles before hanging up his boots.