Former Buffalo Bills Head Coach Dick Jauron Passes Away at 74
Former Buffalo Bills head coach Dick Jauron has passed away at the age of 74. The news was confirmed by sources close to Jauron’s family, though details surrounding his passing have not been disclosed. Jauron, a respected figure in the NFL, leaves behind a legacy as both a player and a coach, having spent decades in the league.
A Life Dedicated to Football
Born on October 7, 1950, Richard Manuel Jauron had an extensive career in football. Before making his mark as a coach, he was a talented athlete. Jauron played college football at Yale University, where he excelled as a running back. His impressive performances earned him a spot in the NFL when he was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round of the 1973 NFL Draft.
Jauron played safety in the NFL for eight seasons, spending five years with the Lions and three with the Cincinnati Bengals. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 1974, showcasing his skills as a reliable and intelligent defensive player. His understanding of the game would later translate into a successful coaching career.
Coaching Career and Time with the Bills
After retiring as a player, Jauron transitioned into coaching. He held various assistant coaching roles before landing his first head coaching position with the Chicago Bears in 1999. He coached the Bears for five seasons, leading them to a 13-3 record in 2001 and earning the NFL Coach of the Year award.
Jauron later served as the interim head coach for the Detroit Lions in 2005 before joining the Buffalo Bills in 2006. Initially hired as an interim head coach following the departure of Mike Mularkey, Jauron impressed the organization enough to secure a long-term role. He coached the Bills from 2006 to 2009, leading them to three consecutive 7-9 seasons before being dismissed midway through the 2009 campaign. Despite his struggles with the Bills, Jauron was well-respected for his calm demeanor and deep knowledge of the game.
Following his time in Buffalo, Jauron served as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles and later the Cleveland Browns before retiring from coaching.
A Respected Figure in the NFL
Throughout his career, Jauron was known for his intelligence, leadership, and professionalism. Many former players and colleagues have expressed their condolences and shared memories of their time with him.
“Dick was an incredible coach and an even better person,” said a former player who played under Jauron. “He always cared about his players and treated everyone with respect.”
Jauron’s passing marks the loss of a significant figure in the football world. While he may not have had the longest head coaching tenure, his impact on the game and the players he mentored will not be forgotten.
He is survived by his family, who have requested privacy during this difficult time. The football community mourns the loss of Dick Jauron, a man who dedicated his life to the game and left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him.