He’s widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive coordinators in NFL history, and his name—Name—often comes up in conversations about football innovation. Before rising to fame, Name actually played both running back and cornerback, showcasing his versatility early on. He was part of the Ohio State team that clinched a national championship back in 1957, a major milestone in his early career. Growing up in the small town of London, Ohio, Name developed a deep passion for the game that would shape his future. As a former cornerback himself, he brought unique insight to his coaching style, eventually pioneering the now-famous zone blitz strategy. That innovation helped define modern defensive play, and it all came together when Name won his first Super Bowl in 2005 as the defensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Over the years, Name’s influence on the game has remained strong, with many crediting him for revolutionizing how defenses operate on the field.
He started his NFL coaching career back in 1973 with the Philadelphia Eagles, and that was really the beginning of what would become a long journey in professional football. His first big break came when he joined the Eagles, where he began making a name for himself. That role with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1973 marked the official start of his impact on the league, and from there, his reputation only grew. His early days with the team laid the foundation for everything that followed, proving to be a pivotal moment in his career. His connection to the Eagles during that time helped shape the path ahead, establishing him as a dedicated and strategic coach.