NFL And College Coach Monte Kiffin Dies At 84

• Monte Kiffin passed away at 84 in Oxford, Mississippi.

• He was a defensive coaching legend in football.

• Kiffin spent 13 seasons as the Buccaneers' defensive coordinator.

Mississippi head coach Lane Kiffin watches from the sideline during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Georgia, Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

AP

The University of Mississippi announced the passing of Monte Kiffin at the age of 84. Kiffin passed away peacefully in Oxford, Mississippi, surrounded by friends and family. The school shared on social media that he is now free of pain and smiling down on them from above. The Kiffin family has requested thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Kiffin was a prominent figure in the football world, known for his defensive coaching prowess. He spent 13 seasons as the defensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and also had coaching stints with the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys. Kiffin was credited with developing the famous 'Tampa 2' defensive scheme that played a crucial role in the Buccaneers' Super Bowl XXXVII victory in 2002.

The Glazer family, owners of the Buccaneers, expressed their deep sorrow at Kiffin's passing, calling him a beloved and iconic member of the organization. They highlighted his innovative coaching style and his role in shaping the legendary Buccaneers defense of the early 2000s.

Aside from his NFL career, Kiffin also worked alongside his son Lane at various college football programs. He served as the defensive coordinator at the University of Tennessee, the University of Southern California, and later as a defensive analyst at Florida Atlantic University. Lane Kiffin, currently the head coach at Ole Miss, shared a heartfelt tribute to his father on social media, referring to him as his hero.

Monte Kiffin's impact on the football world, both at the professional and collegiate levels, is undeniable. His legacy as a defensive mastermind and a beloved mentor to many players and coaches will be remembered for years to come.