Dick Jauron was a longtime veteran of the NFL, first playing for the Detroit Lions and Cincinnati Bengals, then coaching the Chicago Bears and Buffalo Bills.
- Died: February 8, 2025 (Who else died on February 8?)
- Details of death: Died of cancer at the age of 74.
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Dick Jauron’s legacy
Whether it was on the field playing as a safety or on the sidelines inspiring as a coach, Jauron left his mark on several NFL teams.
Born in Peoria, Illinois, Jauron was a high school All-American selection by Parade magazine. He went on to be a three-time All-Ivy League First-team player at Yale University, taking home the Asa S. Bushnell Award as Ivy League Player of the Year in 1972. More than 40 years later, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Jauron was drafted in 1973 by the Detroit Lions. He made the Pro Bowl in his second season and enjoyed an eight-year NFL playing career, five with the Lions and three more with the Cincinnati Bengals. He took a break from the NFL after retiring in 1980, returning in 1985 when he became defensive backs coach for the Buffalo Bills.
After moving through roles for the Green Bay Packers and Jacksonville Jaguars, Jauron was named head coach of the Chicago Bears in 1999. His five-year tenure resulted in a 35-45 record, but it was highlighted by a memorable 2001 season during which the team went 13-3, one of the best in Bears history. Jauron was named AP Coach of the Year for his efforts, and that season is still hailed by fans as one of the team’s most memorable.
He left the Bears in 2003, and after a short stint leading the Lions, he was named head coach of the Bills. After finding only modest success there, Jauron finished out his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns in defensive coaching positions.
Tributes to Dick Jauron
Full obituary: Chicago Sun-Times
