The NFL community is mourning the loss of Dick Jauron, a longtime coach and former Browns defensive coordinator, who passed away at the age of 74 on Saturday morning.
Jauron’s impact on football was felt across multiple teams, from his playing days to his coaching career that spanned decades.
A Life in Football
Dick Jauron was not only a celebrated coach but also a distinguished player. Born and raised in Swampscott, Massachusetts, Jauron was a two-sport star at Yale University, excelling in football and earning All-American honors as a safety.
In the 1973 NFL Draft, Jauron was selected by the Detroit Lions, paving the way for a five-year career in the league. His time with the Lions saw him earn a spot in the Pro Bowl in 1974, thanks to his impressive performance, which included leading the NFC in punt return average.
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After his stint in Detroit, Jauron played three more seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals before hanging up his cleats in 1980. His playing days helped establish a strong foundation for his future as a coach.
Coaching Career Begins
Jauron began his coaching career in 1985 as a defensive backs coach with the Buffalo Bills. He quickly made a name for himself with his understanding of defense, leading to further opportunities in the NFL.
In 1995, he was hired as the defensive coordinator for the expansion Jacksonville Jaguars. Under Jauron’s guidance, the Jaguars built a competitive team, which led to his appointment as the head coach of the Chicago Bears in 2000.
Chicago Bears Success
During his tenure with the Chicago Bears, Jauron made his mark, leading the team to a playoff appearance and earning the AP Coach of the Year award in 2001.
The Bears won the NFC North that year but faced a tough loss to the Eagles in the playoffs. Jauron’s reputation for resilience and dedication shone through, even though he faced challenges with consistency in his record as a coach.
Despite not having a winning record overall during his five seasons as head coach, Jauron is remembered fondly by many players and fans.
One of his former players, Eric Wood, shared, “I was very fortunate to start my NFL career with Dick Jauron as my first head coach. He set a great foundation for my career with his extensive knowledge of the NFL game.”
Moves and Milestones
Aftersome ups and downs, Jauron transitioned to coaching the defensive backs in Detroit, where he briefly served as interim head coach.
In 2006, he returned to Buffalo, this time as the head coach. Jauron’s time with the Bills lasted until 2009, when he finished with a 60-82 overall record and one playoff berth.
His coaching journey also included a season with the Cleveland Browns, where he served as the defensive coordinator for the 2011 and 2012 seasons.
Jauron’s expertise helped guide the defense during this period, with the team finishing fifth in points allowed in 2011 and showing promise despite the overall struggles of the franchise.
Personal Life and Legacy
Outside of his remarkable career, Dick Jauron was known as a family man. He is survived by his daughter, Kacy, who shared the heartbreaking news of his passing on social media.
Jauron’s legacy extends beyond the field; his influence on players and coaches, along with his dedication to the game, will not be forgotten.
Jauron’s family roots ran deep, not just in the NFL but also in his hometown of Swampscott, where he was a local hero.
Many remember him as a talented athlete who inspired countless young players. Jauron’s contributions to football were significant, and his legacy in the NFL will continue to impact the game for years to come.
Remembering Dick Jauron
As the sports world reflects on the life of Dick Jauron, it’s clear that his impact was felt in various corners of the NFL. From his playing days to coaching multiple teams, his knowledge of the game and character were invaluable.
His time coaching the Bears, Bills, and Browns showcased his commitment to building strong rosters and developing players.
Dick Jauron will always be remembered for his sports career, stellar character, and enduring passion for football. He showed that being a coach is much more than just calling plays — it’s about nurturing talent and shaping the future of athletes in the sport.
In honor of Dick Jauron, we can take a moment to look back on his impressive journey in football, a journey that has now come full circle. The legacy he leaves behind will resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege to play for, work with, or be inspired by him.
Rest in peace, Dick Jauron. Your contributions to the game will always be cherished.