If this happens, he will join the ranks of NFL head coaches who are former players. Pierce was a Super Bowl-winning linebacker with the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants from 2001 to 2009.
Let’s take a look at the current NFL head coaches that formerly played in the league. (Coaches who were only on practice squads or had brief NFL playing careers are not included.):
Todd Bowles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: He was a safety for Washington and San Francisco from 1986 to 1993.
Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions: He was a tight end with the Giants, Dallas, Detroit, and New Orleans from 1999 to 2009.
Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota Vikings: From 2008 to 2011, he was a deep backup quarterback with New England and the Jets, with some stints on other teams’ practice squads.
Doug Pederson, Jacksonville Jaguars: From 1992 to 2004, he worked as a backup quarterback in Miami, Green Bay, Philadelphia, and Cleveland. He was best recognized for serving as Brett Favre’s backup with the Packers twice.
Ron Rivera, Washington Commanders: He played linebacker with the Chicago Bears from 1984 to 1992, and was a member of the Bears’ 1985 Super Bowl championship team. It was regarded as one of the greatest defensive teams ever.
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DeMeco Ryans, Houston Texans: From 2006 to 2015, he was a linebacker for Houston and Philadelphia. He was named Defensive Rookie of the Year and was selected to two Pro Bowls. He was a fantastic player.
Mike Vrabel, Tennessee Titans: He played linebacker for Pittsburgh, New England, and Kansas City from 1997 to 2010. His eight-year career with the Patriots included three Super Bowl rings and an All-Pro selection in 2007. He, like Ryans, was a good player.
Note:
The Carolina Panthers dismissed Frank Reich on Monday: From 1985 until 1998, he was largely a backup quarterback for four teams, including ten seasons as Jim Kelly’s backup in Buffalo. He oversaw a 32-point comeback in the playoffs that was the largest NFL comeback in any game until that moment.
