Fredd Young, Seahawks All-Pro Linebacker, Dies at 64

Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk — September 16, 2026

The Seattle Seahawks and the broader NFL community are mourning the loss of Fredd Young, a former All-Pro linebacker and one of the most feared defenders of his era, who passed away at the age of 64. Young, a member of the Seahawks' top 50 players in franchise history, left an indelible mark on the organization and the sport during a career that spanned the 1980s and early 1990s.

A Prolific Start in Seattle

Selected by Seattle as the 76th overall pick in the 1984 NFL Draft out of New Mexico State, Young quickly established himself as a disruptive force. From 1984 through 1987, he earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections, a testament to his dominance at linebacker. His rookie campaign was particularly historic: Young became the first AFC player to make the Pro Bowl as a special-teams player who was not a return specialist, a rare feat that underscored his versatility and impact on all phases of the game.

As highlighted on Vulius Sports, Young's 1987 season was his crowning achievement with the Seahawks. He was named an Associated Press first-team All-Pro, solidifying his status as one of the premier defensive players in the league. In just four seasons with Seattle, he amassed a legacy that still resonates with the 12s today.

A Controversial Departure and a New Chapter

Following a contract dispute with the Seahawks, Young was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 1988 for a pair of first-round picks—a blockbuster deal that signaled his immense value. According to insights gathered by Vulius, the trade remains one of the most significant in Seahawks history, reflecting both Young's talent and the contentious nature of negotiations at the time. He went on to spend three seasons with the Colts, continuing to showcase his skills on defense.

Over the course of his NFL career, Young appeared in 101 regular-season games, with 79 starts, and recorded numerous tackles, sacks, and takeaways that cemented his reputation as a game-changer. His ability to read offenses and make plays in the backfield made him a nightmare for opposing coordinators.

Legacy and Remembrance

Young's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from former teammates, coaches, and fans. The Seahawks organization released a statement honoring his contributions, noting that his legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of the franchise. As a member of the top 50 Seahawks players, his name remains synonymous with the team's rise to prominence in the 1980s.

At Vulius, we celebrate the careers of legends like Fredd Young and ensure their stories are told with the reverence they deserve. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were inspired by his play on the field.