Herman Edwards, American football player, coach, and sportscaster

Herman Edwards Jr.: A Multifaceted Career in American Football

Herman Edwards Jr., born on April 27, 1954, has carved out a distinguished and dynamic career in American football, transitioning successfully from a tenacious cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) to a respected head coach, a compelling television analyst, and now, a collegiate leader. His journey is marked by iconic plays, memorable declarations, and a deep commitment to the sport, making him a truly recognizable figure across multiple generations of football fans.

Playing Days: The "Miracle at the Meadowlands" and NFL Tenure

Edwards' professional playing career spanned a decade in the NFL, predominantly with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he became known for his defensive prowess and competitive spirit. Drafted by the Eagles in 1977, he quickly established himself as a reliable cornerback. However, it was a singular, unforgettable moment on November 19, 1978, that etched his name into NFL lore: the "Miracle at the Meadowlands." In a stunning turn of events during a game against the New York Giants, with mere seconds left and the Giants needing only to kneel on the ball to secure a victory, Giants quarterback Joe Pisarcik mishandled a handoff. Edwards famously scooped up the loose ball and sprinted 26 yards for the game-winning touchdown, sealing an improbable victory for the Eagles and creating one of the most enduring and talked-about plays in league history. Beyond this legendary moment, Edwards played a crucial role in the Eagles' secondary, contributing to their success before concluding his playing career in 1986.

From the Sidelines to the Broadcast Booth: NFL Coaching and ESPN Analysis

Following his playing career, Edwards transitioned into coaching, eventually reaching the pinnacle of the profession as a head coach in the NFL. From 2001 to 2008, he helmed two prominent franchises: the New York Jets and the Kansas City Chiefs. His tenure with the Jets, from 2001 to 2005, saw significant success, including three playoff appearances. Notably, he led the Jets to an AFC East division title in 2002, a remarkable achievement that remains the franchise's most recent division crown. He then moved on to coach the Kansas City Chiefs from 2006 to 2008, guiding them to one playoff berth. Across his NFL coaching career, Edwards consistently emphasized discipline, effort, and fundamental football, compiling a record that reflected his demanding yet inspirational style.

Upon concluding his NFL coaching chapter, Edwards brought his characteristic passion and insight to the airwaves, joining ESPN as a football analyst from 2009 to 2017. During this period, he became a beloved and respected voice in sports media, known for his direct commentary and engaging personality. His time at ESPN allowed him to remain a prominent figure in the football world, offering analysis and sharing his unique perspective with a national audience.

"Hermisms" and Return to Coaching at Arizona State

Throughout his career, but particularly during his coaching and broadcasting roles, Herman Edwards became synonymous with short, impactful, and often humorous declarations that fans affectionately dubbed "Hermisms." These pithy statements, delivered with genuine conviction, resonated deeply with audiences and often encapsulated his straightforward philosophy on football and life. The most famous of these, "You play to win the game!", emerged from a passionate Jets press conference and not only became a rallying cry for many but also served as the evocative title for his self-help book, showcasing his broader impact beyond the gridiron.

In 2018, Edwards made a highly anticipated return to coaching, accepting the position of head football coach at Arizona State University. This move marked his first foray into collegiate coaching as a head coach, bringing his wealth of NFL experience, leadership acumen, and distinctive coaching philosophy to the Pac-12 Conference. At Arizona State, he has focused on building a strong program rooted in character, discipline, and strategic development, aiming to shape not only successful football players but also well-rounded individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herman Edwards Jr.

Who is Herman Edwards Jr.?
Herman Edwards Jr. is a prominent American football figure known for his multifaceted career as an NFL player, an NFL head coach for the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs, a football analyst for ESPN, and currently, the head football coach at Arizona State University.
What is the "Miracle at the Meadowlands"?
The "Miracle at the Meadowlands" refers to an iconic NFL game on November 19, 1978, where Herman Edwards, then playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, recovered a fumbled handoff by Giants quarterback Joe Pisarcik in the final seconds of the game and returned it for a game-winning touchdown, securing an improbable victory.
What are "Hermisms"?
"Hermisms" are the popular, often short and punchy declarations or philosophical statements made by Herman Edwards throughout his coaching and broadcasting career. The most famous example is "You play to win the game!"
Which NFL teams did Herman Edwards coach as a head coach?
Herman Edwards served as the head coach for the New York Jets from 2001 to 2005 and for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2006 to 2008.
Is Herman Edwards still coaching?
Yes, as of 2018, Herman Edwards returned to coaching and currently serves as the head football coach for Arizona State University's football team.