NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Titans defensive coordinator and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dick LeBeau turns 80 today, and Sunday he becomes the first 80-year old coordinator in NFL history.
“My plan is to not acknowledge it,” LeBeau said, laughing. “To paraphrase Garth Brooks’ song, it’s a good song, I’m much too old to feel this damn young, man. That’s all I’ve got to say about the birthday.”
LeBeau was born on Sept. 9, 1937. He played at Ohio State from 1955-58 and for the Detroit Lions from 1959-1972 and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. He's coached in the NFL since 1973.
LeBeau still loves the work and he's still sharp. The Titans are lucky to have him. He and the defense have a big task ahead, as Derick Carr and the Raiders offense can really push the ball downfield and the offensive line affords him quality protection.
I asked three members of LeBeau’s defense for a preview of what they’d say to him.
