Longtime NFL coach and former defensive back Dick Jauron has died at the age of 74, the Buffalo Bills announced Saturday. Jauron coached in the NFL for nearly three decades, most recently serving as the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns from 2011-12.

Dick Jauron

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Jauron was the head coach of the Bears from 1999-2003 and won the NFL Coach of the Year in 2001 after a highly successful season where Chicago posted a 13-3 record and secured a playoff spot for the first time since 1994. His coaching career left a lasting impact, notably with a strong defensive team that had five players selected for the Pro Bowl.

In addition to his coaching career, Jauron played eight seasons as a defensive back after being drafted by the Lions in 1973. He was known for his outstanding defensive skills, leading the league in interception return yards during his second season.

Quotes by peers and commentators highlight his contributions to the game.