Ernie Stautner, German-American football player and coach (d. 2006)

Ernest Alfred Stautner, whose remarkable career left an indelible mark on American professional football for over four decades, was a towering figure both on the field and from the sidelines. Born in Germany on April 20, 1925, he later became a distinguished German-American defensive tackle and an influential coach in the National Football League (NFL) before his passing on February 16, 2006. His journey through the sport showcased an unwavering commitment to excellence, defined by fierce play as an athlete and strategic brilliance as a mentor.

A Formidable Presence on the Field: Pittsburgh Steelers Legend

Stautner's collegiate football career unfolded at Boston College, where he honed the skills that would define his professional path. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 1950 NFL Draft, he embarked on a playing career that would establish him as one of the franchise's most revered figures. For 14 seasons, from 1950 to 1963, Stautner was an immovable force as a defensive tackle, playing his entire professional career with the Steelers.

He quickly became synonymous with toughness, durability, and a relentless motor. Stautner's ferocity and consistent high-level performance earned him nine Pro Bowl selections during his tenure, a testament to his impact in an era of rugged, trench warfare football. His immense contributions were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969, solidifying his legacy among the game's immortals. Furthermore, in a rare honor, the Pittsburgh Steelers retired his jersey number, 70, making him the very first player in the franchise's history to receive such a distinction, underscoring his iconic status within the team's storied heritage.

From Player to Architect of Defense: A Distinguished Coaching Career

Transitioning seamlessly from his playing days, Ernest Stautner brought his profound understanding of defense and an innate leadership quality to the coaching ranks. His coaching journey began with a return to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he served as a defensive line coach from 1965 to 1969. Following this, he spent two seasons with the Washington Redskins in the same capacity, continuing to shape defensive talent.

However, it was his extensive and highly successful tenure with the Dallas Cowboys that truly cemented his reputation as a coaching legend. Joining the Cowboys in 1973, Stautner served as both a defensive line coach and, crucially, as the defensive coordinator, until 1988. During this period, he was an indispensable architect of the famed "Doomsday Defense," a formidable unit that was the backbone of the Cowboys' success under head coach Tom Landry. Under Stautner's guidance and strategic input, the Cowboys achieved two Super Bowl victories (Super Bowl VI and Super Bowl XII), demonstrating his ability to craft and execute championship-level defensive schemes. After his impactful time in Dallas, Stautner continued to lend his expertise to the Denver Broncos as a defensive line coach from 1989 to 1994, and even returned briefly to the Cowboys as a scouting consultant. He also contributed to the World League of American Football (now NFL Europe), sharing his knowledge with a new generation of players and coaches.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Ernest Alfred Stautner's life was a testament to his passion for American football. From his beginnings as an immigrant to becoming a Pro Football Hall of Famer and a key figure in championship-winning teams, his influence spanned multiple eras and roles within the sport. He was a pioneer for the Steelers, a defensive mastermind for the Cowboys, and a respected mentor throughout his coaching career. His legacy is one of uncompromising effort, strategic brilliance, and an enduring impact on the defensive philosophy of the game, living on through the players he coached and the indelible records he helped set.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ernest Alfred Stautner

What teams did Ernie Stautner play for?

Ernie Stautner played his entire 14-season professional career, from 1950 to 1963, as a defensive tackle exclusively for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

What teams did Ernie Stautner coach for?

Ernie Stautner had a distinguished coaching career with several NFL teams. He coached for the Pittsburgh Steelers (defensive line), the Washington Redskins (defensive line), the Dallas Cowboys (defensive line coach and defensive coordinator), and the Denver Broncos (defensive line). He also had a role as a scouting consultant for the Cowboys and coached in the World League of American Football.

Is Ernie Stautner in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

Yes, Ernie Stautner was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969, recognizing his outstanding playing career.

What was Ernie Stautner's jersey number?

Ernie Stautner wore jersey number 70 for the Pittsburgh Steelers, which was retired by the franchise in his honor, making him the first player in Steelers history to receive this distinction.

What was Ernie Stautner's role in the "Doomsday Defense"?

As the defensive coordinator and defensive line coach for the Dallas Cowboys from 1973 to 1988, Ernie Stautner was a pivotal figure in developing and executing the legendary "Doomsday Defense." He played a crucial role in shaping the personnel and strategies that made it one of the most dominant defensive units in NFL history, contributing significantly to the Cowboys' two Super Bowl victories during that period.