Bryan wrote:Kind of an interesting player. Very tall for a CB at 6'4", yet was a 9-year starter and played at a high level. Wore glasses. Was a late round draft choice out of Coryell's San Diego State program, but became an immediate starter for the Eagles. Went to the Redskins where he was also an immediate starter, and earned 2 pro bowls in 1979 and 1980 (and an NFL Films All-Pro CB Saviors Saints Sinners selection alongside Lester Hayes). A nickleback on the 1982 Redskins champion team, then retired.
*Has there ever been a 6'5" CB who had a long NFL career?
*Why was Lavender sent to Washington after the 1975 season?
*Why did Lavender retire when he did? The Redskins could have really used him in 1983. He definitely could not have been worse than Anthony Washington. Was there any talk at the time of the Redskins trying to bring Lavender back?
I believe he's the tallest who started for more tan 5 seasons. Lenny Walls, who played for Denver, Kansas City and St. Louis from 2002-2007 was also 6'4", but only had one season as a full-time starter.
It's interesting that in his first six seasons in Washington, Lavender was a starter each game at RCB, then in 1982 he only started once and missed two games.
In 1980, Lavender went to the Pro Bowl, but was snubbed by the All-Pro teams. Alongside Lester Hayes, the AP selected Pat Thomas, while Mike Haynes and Lavender's teammate, Lemar Parrish, were selected to the second team.
