Mike Holmgren

The coach who led the Packers to Super Bowl XXXI victory and molded Hall of Fame quarterbacks.

Mike Holmgren, born June 15, 1948, is a former NFL coach and executive. He started his pro coaching path as a quarterbacks coach and then offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, a team that won Super Bowls XXIII and XXIV during his time there. From 1992 to 1998, he was head coach of the Green Bay Packers, leading them to a victory in Super Bowl XXXI. He then coached the Seattle Seahawks from 1999 to 2008. His final NFL role was as president of the Cleveland Browns, a position he held from 2010 to 2012. Before entering the professional ranks, Holmgren coached at both the high school and college levels.

Quick Facts

Number: 19
Position: Quarterback
Born: 15 June 1948
Birthplace: San Francisco, California, U.S.
High school: Abraham Lincoln (San Francisco)
College: USC (1966–1969)
Draft year: 1970
Draft round: 8

Facts from the source article.

Background

Holmgren is noted for his role in molding quarterbacks such as Steve Young, Brett Favre, and Matt Hasselbeck during his tenures in San Francisco, Green Bay, and Seattle, respectively. Joe Montana won his two MVP awards under the direction of Holmgren in 1989 and 1990. Under Holmgren's leadership and play-calling, the Green Bay Packers were consistent winners and never had a losing season. He led the Packers to their 12th league championship in Super Bowl XXXI, a 35–21 win over the New England Patriots; and also reached Super Bowl XXXII.

Under Holmgren the Seahawks also became a frequent playoff team, including five division titles and the franchise's first Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XL. In total, Holmgren won eight division titles as a head coach to go along with twelve playoff appearances, three NFC Championships and one Super Bowl. As president of the Cleveland Browns, Holmgren failed to improve the team, which had a record of 5–11 the season before his arrival, and 14–34 in his tenure.

Despite Holmgren's reputation as a quarterback guru, the Browns fielded three different opening-day starters in his three years with the team. In the face of much criticism in the media and new ownership, he was released by the Browns in November 2012.