Ernie Stautner, German-American football player and coach (b. 1925)

Ernest Alfred Stautner (April 20, 1925 – February 16, 2006) stands as a towering figure in American professional football, renowned both for his formidable play as a defensive tackle and his strategic brilliance as a coach. A German-American trailblazer, Stautner carved out an impressive career spanning decades in the National Football League (NFL) with iconic teams such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Redskins, and Dallas Cowboys, following his foundational college football years at Boston College.

Born in Prienzing, Germany, Stautner immigrated to the United States with his family at a young age, settling in Albany, New York. This dual heritage, combined with his inherent grit, imbued him with a tenacious spirit that would define his relentless approach to football, both on and off the field.

The Playing Career: A Steelers Legend

Before his distinguished professional journey, Stautner honed his skills at Boston College, where he played college football as a two-way lineman. His exceptional play for the Eagles caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 10th overall pick in the 1950 NFL Draft.

His tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he spent his entire 14-year playing career from 1950 to 1963, cemented his legend. Despite often being undersized for a defensive tackle in his era, Stautner's ferocity, strength, and unwavering determination earned him nine Pro Bowl selections, a testament to his consistent elite performance. He was a foundational piece for the Steelers during a challenging era, embodying the grit and toughness that would later become synonymous with the franchise. In recognition of his unparalleled contributions, Ernest Stautner was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969, and his number 70 was the first, and for many years, the only jersey number retired by the Steelers organization.

Following his illustrious playing career, Stautner briefly transitioned to the coaching ranks, initially with the Washington Redskins in 1964 as a defensive line coach.

The Coaching Career: Architect of Elite Defenses

However, it was his extensive and highly impactful coaching career with the Dallas Cowboys that truly cemented his legacy as a tactical genius. Joining the Cowboys in 1966, Stautner became a pivotal member of Tom Landry's coaching staff, primarily serving as the defensive coordinator and defensive line coach for 23 seasons. During his tenure, the 'Doomsday Defense,' a hallmark of the Cowboys' success, thrived under his meticulous guidance. He contributed to the Cowboys reaching five Super Bowls, securing two Super Bowl championships (Super Bowl VI in 1972 and Super Bowl XII in 1978). His meticulous preparation and ability to develop elite defensive talent were instrumental in the team's sustained excellence throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Stautner also contributed his expertise to other NFL franchises, including a significant stint with the Denver Broncos. As the defensive line coach for the Broncos, he further augmented his championship resume by earning two more Super Bowl rings (Super Bowl XXXII in 1998 and Super Bowl XXXIII in 1999), solidifying his reputation as one of the most successful defensive coaches in NFL history.

Legacy and Impact

Ernest Stautner's impact on American football is profound and multifaceted. From his unyielding presence on the field as a Hall of Fame defensive tackle who defined an era of tough, uncompromising play, to his strategic mastermind role in shaping some of the NFL's most dominant defenses, he left an indelible mark on multiple generations of players and coaches. His remarkable career, spanning over four decades as a player and coach, epitomizes dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, making him a true icon of the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ernest Stautner

What was Ernie Stautner's primary playing position?
Ernie Stautner was primarily a defensive tackle, renowned for his ferocity, strength, and relentless pursuit of opposing offenses despite often being undersized.
Which NFL team did Ernie Stautner play for the longest?
He played his entire 14-year NFL playing career exclusively for the Pittsburgh Steelers (1950-1963), earning legendary status within the franchise.
Is Ernie Stautner in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?
Yes, Ernie Stautner was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969, a testament to his exceptional playing career.
How many Super Bowls did Ernie Stautner win as a coach?
Ernie Stautner won four Super Bowls as a coach: two with the Dallas Cowboys (Super Bowl VI and XII) and two with the Denver Broncos (Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII).
What was Ernie Stautner's jersey number with the Pittsburgh Steelers?
His jersey number 70 was retired by the Pittsburgh Steelers, making him the first player in franchise history to receive that distinguished honor.