NFL great Eddie Meador dead at 86

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Eddie Meador, a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro selection as a member of the Los Angeles Rams, has died, the team announced Tuesday. He was 86.

The Rams confirmed Meador’s death in a statement. Dave Meador, Eddie’s son, initially told Talk of Fame’s Clark Judge about his father’s passing.

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Los Angeles Rams defensive back Ed Meador, #21, on the sideline against the New York Jets at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. (David Boss-USA TODAY Sports)

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of an NFL great, Eddie Meador, who was a standout leader for our organization and the Los Angeles community throughout his entire 12-year career," the Rams said in a statement. "He was an instinctive and fearless competitor who captained some of the greatest defenses in NFL history.

"Eddie's ability to galvanize teammates made him a heartbeat of the Rams and his humility made him approachable to everyone. The Meador family and friends are at the core of our thoughts, and his legacy will live on forever."

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Los Angeles Rams defensive back Ed Meador, #21, and Willie Daniel, #46, tackle New York Giants offensive player at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles Nov. 24, 1968. (David Boss-USA TODAY Sports)

The Rams selected Meador in the seventh round of the 1959 NFL Draft out of Arkansas Tech. He played 12 games in his rookie season and quickly became a staple on defense.

The defensive back rotated from cornerback to free safety, earning several accolades during his career. He played in 163 games and recorded 46 interceptions,