Barry Wilburn, a former NFL standout and Super Bowl champion, has died after being caught in a devastating house fire early Friday morning, his family confirmed this weekend. He was 62.
Emergency crews from the Memphis Fire Department responded to a residential blaze in the Orange Mound neighborhood shortly before 2 a.m. on Feb. 6. Firefighters discovered an unresponsive Wilburn in a rear hallway of the home; he was later pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Wilburn, a native of Memphis, first rose to national prominence as a standout defensive back at Melrose High School and later at the University of Mississippi. He was selected in the eighth round of the 1985 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins (now the Washington Commanders).
The cornerback enjoyed the most notable season of his career in 1987, when he led the league with nine interceptions and earned first-team All-Pro honors. That same season, Wilburn played a key role in Washington’s decisive 42–10 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII, recording two interceptions in the championship game.
After five seasons with Washington, Wilburn played for the Cleveland Browns and later for the Philadelphia Eagles. He also spent time in the Canadian Football League, where he added a Grey Cup title to his list of career achievements — making him one of the few players to win both a Super Bowl and a Grey Cup.
The Washington Commanders issued a statement mourning his loss, saying, “We’re saddened to learn of the passing of former Washington All-Pro and Super Bowl XXII champion Barry Wilburn. Sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Family and former teammates remember Wilburn as a beloved figure both on and off the field. In an exclusive interview, loved ones spoke of his infectious personality and the joy he brought to those around him throughout his life.
Wilburn’s legacy as a fierce competitor and community figure will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike.
