Herm Edwards, known for his energetic personality and straightforward approach, had a multifaceted career in professional football, both as a player and a coach. Born on April 27, 1954, in Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, Edwards grew up with a passion for the game that would eventually lead him to the National Football League (NFL).
Edwards began his professional playing career as a cornerback with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1977. He quickly established himself as a reliable and durable player, starting in all 16 games during his rookie season. Over the next nine seasons with the Eagles, Edwards became known for his consistency and ability to read the game. He played in 135 consecutive games, a testament to his durability and skill on the field.
One of the most memorable moments of Edwards' playing career came in 1978 during a game against the New York Giants. In what is famously known as the "Miracle at the Meadowlands," Edwards recovered a fumble by Giants quarterback Joe Pisarcik and returned it for a touchdown, securing a last-minute victory for the Eagles. This play remains one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and is often cited as a turning point for the Eagles that season.
After his time with the Eagles, Edwards had brief stints with the Los Angeles Rams and the Atlanta Falcons before retiring as a player in 1986. His transition from player to coach began shortly thereafter, as he took on various coaching roles at both the collegiate and professional levels.
Edwards' coaching career in the NFL started with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he served as a defensive backs coach from 1992 to 1995. He then moved to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, working under head coach Tony Dungy as the assistant head coach and defensive backs coach from 1996 to 2000. During his tenure with the Buccaneers, Edwards helped develop a strong defensive unit that became one of the best in the league.
In 2001, Edwards was appointed as the head coach of the New York Jets. His tenure with the Jets was marked by a focus on discipline and teamwork. Under his leadership, the Jets made the playoffs in his first season and again in 2002 and 2004. Edwards' time with the Jets was characterized by his motivational style and ability to connect with players, earning their respect and fostering a competitive team environment.
After five seasons with the Jets, Edwards returned to the Kansas City Chiefs as their head coach in 2006. His first season with the Chiefs saw the team make the playoffs, but the following years were challenging, with the team struggling to find consistent success. Edwards' tenure with the Chiefs ended after the 2008 season.
Throughout his career, Herm Edwards was known for his straightforward and motivational approach, often delivering memorable quotes that resonated with both players and fans. His famous phrase, "You play to win the game," has become a part of NFL lore, encapsulating his philosophy on competition and sportsmanship.
After his coaching career, Edwards transitioned to a role as an analyst for ESPN, where he provided insights and commentary on the game, drawing from his extensive experience as both a player and a coach. His ability to articulate the nuances of football and his engaging personality made him a popular figure in sports media.
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