The Buffalo Bills and the NFL community mourn the loss of former head coach Dick Jauron, who passed away at the age of 74. Jauron was the 14th head coach of the Bills, leading the team from 2006 to 2009. His coaching journey began in Buffalo in 1985 as the defensive backs coach under Hank Bullough. Eric Wood, for whom Jauron was the first head coach, shared, 'I was fortunate to start my NFL career with Dick Jauron. He set a great foundation for my career with his extensive knowledge of the NFL game and helped us develop as professionals both on and off the field. Coach Jauron was a sincere and thoughtful family man and a true gentleman. My heart goes out to his family during this challenging time.' Jauron was also a legendary high school athlete in Swampscott, MA, recognized as one of the top 10 high school football players in the state's history by the Boston Globe. He enjoyed a stellar career at Yale as a running back and was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2015. As a player, Jauron showcased his talents in the NFL from 1973 to 1980 with the Detroit Lions and Cincinnati Bengals, notably earning Pro Bowl honors in 1974. In addition, he was named the AP Coach of the Year in 2001 while coaching the Chicago Bears. Adding to the sentiments, many have expressed their shock and sadness over his passing, remembering him as a local hero in Swampscott, where he excelled in not just football but also in academics. The Bills organization extends its condolences to the Jauron family during this difficult time, reflecting on the impact he made both on the field and in the lives of those he coached.
