Remembering Dick Jauron: A Life Dedicated to Football
The football community mourns the loss of Dick Jauron a respected player and coach, who passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 74, after a brief battle with brain cancer.
Born on October 7, 1950, in Peoria, Illinois, Jauron showcased his athletic prowess early on. He attended Swampscott High School in Massachusetts, where he excelled in multiple sports. His talent on the football field earned him a spot at Yale University, where he distinguished himself as a standout running back. His exceptional performance led to his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2015.
In the 1973 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions selected Jauron in the fourth round. Transitioning to the safety position, he made an immediate impact, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1974. Over his eight-season playing career, Jauron recorded 25 interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, while playing for the Lions and later the Cincinnati Bengals.
Following his playing days, Jauron seamlessly transitioned into coaching. He began as a defensive backs coach with the Buffalo Bills in 1985, later holding the same position with the Green Bay Packers from 1986 to 1994. His coaching acumen led to his role as the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 1995 to 1998.
In 1999, Jauron was appointed head coach of the Chicago Bears. His tenure was highlighted by the 2001 season, where he led the team to a 13-3 record, securing the NFC Central Division title and earning him the Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year award. Despite this success, the Bears faced challenges in subsequent seasons, leading to his departure in 2003.
Jauron’s coaching journey continued with the Detroit Lions, where he served as defensive coordinator and interim head coach in 2005. He then returned to the Buffalo Bills as head coach from 2006 to 2009. His final NFL coaching role was as the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns from 2011 to 2012.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jauron was remembered by peers and players as a sincere and thoughtful individual. Former Bills center Eric Wood reflected, “Coach Jauron was a sincere and thoughtful family man and a true gentleman. My heart goes out to his family during this difficult time.
Dick Jauron’s legacy in the NFL is marked by his contributions both on and off the field. He is survived by his wife, Gail, and daughter, Kay. His other daughter, Amy, predeceased him in 2014.
As the football world reflects on his impactful career, Jauron is remembered not only for his strategic mind and leadership but also for his integrity and dedication to the sport.
