In sad news for the football community, Dick Jauron, a significant figure in the National Football League, has passed away at the age of 74 after bravely battling cancer. His death on Saturday has left a void in the hearts of fans, players, and colleagues who admired his contributions to the game both as a player and as a coach.
Jauron’s Football Journey
Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, Jauron was a standout athlete from an early age. At Swampscott High School, he excelled in various sports, showcasing his talent as a running back in football, where he racked up an impressive 3,284 rushing yards. Following high school, he attended Yale University, where he became a star and won prestigious honors, including the Asa S. Bushnell Cup as the Ivy League Player of the Year in 1972. His remarkable skills on the field led to his selection in the 1973 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, marking the beginning of his professional football career.
Player to Coach
Jauron spent eight seasons as an NFL safety, playing for the Detroit Lions and the Cincinnati Bengals. He was particularly recognized for his skills on special teams, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1974 after leading the NFC in punt-return average. After stepping away as a player, he transitioned into coaching—this shift would become a significant part of his legacy. Jauron began his coaching career in the mid-1980s and worked his way up through various positions, eventually becoming a head coach.
Coaching Achievements
Throughout nearly three decades of coaching, Jauron held important roles with several teams, including the Chicago Bears and the Buffalo Bills. He was the head coach of the Bears from 1999 to 2003 and achieved remarkable success, notably being named NFL Coach of the Year in 2001 after leading the team to a 13-3 record. Later, he coached the Bills from 2006 to 2009, navigating challenging seasons but earning respect for his character and leadership style.
A Legacy of Respect and Leadership
Jauron was not just known for his experience and knowledge of the game; he was also widely respected for his integrity and ability to inspire those around him. Marv Levy, the former head coach of the Bills, described Jauron as a “respected, high-character individual,” a sentiment echoed by many who worked with him. His coaching tenure included stints as a defensive coordinator with the Cleveland Browns and defensive backs coach with the Philadelphia Eagles, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to nurturing talent.
Remembering a Football Icon
Beyond his achievements on the field, Jauron’s influence extended to teammates and players he coached. Many recall his warmth and dedication, the way he treated everyone with respect, regardless of their role. His journey through football inspired countless aspiring athletes. After his passing, fans and former players took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the impact Jauron had on their lives. He will be remembered not just for his wins and recognitions, but for the lasting principles he embodied: hard work, perseverance, and kindness.
Final Days and Legacy
Jauron’s battle with cancer was a private one, known only to those close to him until just before his passing. He fought bravely, and while he faced this challenge away from the public eye, the love and admiration from the football community never wavered. As we reflect on his life and career, we recognize the substantial legacy he leaves behind—not only in the halls of NFL history but also in the hearts of those he has touched.
Table of Achievements
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| NFL Coach of the Year (Bears) | 2001 |
| Pro Bowl Selection | 1974 |
| College Football Hall of Fame Induction | 2015 |
| Yale University Football Star | 1972 |
As we say goodbye to Dick Jauron, we celebrate his immense contributions, not just to football, but to the lives of everyone he inspired. Rest in peace, Coach Jauron; your legacy will forever live on in the game and among those who loved you.