Former Bears head coach Dick Jauron has died at the age of 74 after a short illness.
Jauron had a long career in the NFL, spending 36 seasons—eight as a player and 28 as a coach. He was the head coach of the Bears from 1999 to 2003 and earned NFL Coach of the Year honors in 2001 after leading the Bears to the NFC Central title with a remarkable 13-3 record. That unforgettable season included an impressive six-game winning streak, highlighted by dramatic overtime comebacks against the 49ers and Browns.
The Bears organization released a statement expressing their condolences, noting Jauron’s pride in representing his home state and the Bears fanbase. “He was a class act and true Illinois native,” the statement read, while acknowledging his leadership that led to the division title in 2001 and his recognition as AP NFL Coach of the Year. They extended their sympathies to Jauron’s family and friends.
In addition to his time with the Bears, Jauron served as interim head coach for the Lions in 2005 and was head coach for the Bills from 2006 to 2009. His last role was as defensive coordinator for the Browns in 2011-12.
Patrick Mannelly, a long snapper who played under Jauron, reflected on his character and family values. He admired Jauron as a mentor and appreciated his honesty and consistency as a coach. Mannelly noted that Jauron’s sincerity earned him respect on the team.
I personally had the privilege of being hired as a senior writer by the Bears in 2001 while Jauron was coaching. From the start, he welcomed me warmly, introducing me to players and staff and offering his full support.
A memorable story showcased Jauron’s character: during training camp, he needed to return to his room for his ID instead of reacting negatively to a college student asking for it—something rare for an NFL head coach.
Former Bears quarterback Jim Miller praised Jauron for his honesty and integrity, stating that players knew they would be treated fairly under his guidance. He was well-respected across the league for his conduct as both a man and a coach.
As a player, Jauron was a safety who participated in 100 NFL games, starting 80 and accumulating 25 interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns, along with 15 fumble recoveries and 4.0 sacks. He was drafted by Detroit in the fourth round of the 1973 draft from Yale, earning Pro Bowl honors in 1974.
Born in Peoria, Illinois, on October 7, 1950, Jauron attended school in Rensselaer, Indiana, before moving to Massachusetts. He was a multi-sport athlete in high school and went on to have an impressive collegiate career at Yale, where he became the all-time leading rusher and won multiple accolades.
Former Bears safety Gary Fencik, who played alongside Jauron at Yale, recalled his remarkable talent on the field, especially during key games that showcased his skills.
Jauron is survived by his wife, Gail, and daughter, Kacy. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy, who passed away at the age of 28 in December 2014.
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