Vernon Leroy Maxwell (born October 25, 1961) is a former American college and professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for seven seasons during the 1980s. Maxwell played college football for Arizona State University, and was selected as an All-American. He played professionally for the Indianapolis Colts, Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks, and was recognized as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Maxwell was born in Birmingham, Alabama.