In a somber announcement today, Auburn University revealed the passing of Mike Kolen, a revered figure in football history, at the age of 76. Kolen, who etched his name into the annals of NFL glory as a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Miami Dolphins, leaves behind a legacy that transcends mere athletic prowess.
Auburn University reminisced about Kolen’s remarkable journey, highlighting his stellar collegiate career where he earned All-SEC honors during his tenure and emerged as a defensive stalwart. It was during his years at Auburn that the foundations of Kolen’s indomitable spirit and tenacity were laid, traits that would come to define his illustrious career on the gridiron.
Kolen’s transition to the professional realm was seamless, as he donned the iconic aqua and orange of the Miami Dolphins for eight remarkable seasons. A key member of the legendary undefeated Dolphins team of 1972, Kolen’s contributions were not merely statistical but emblematic of a warrior’s spirit. His bone-jarring tackles and game-changing interceptions cemented his status as a defensive linchpin and earned him the affectionate moniker “Captain Crunch” among his peers.
Despite the physical toll exacted by the sport he loved, Kolen’s passion for football never waned. His reflections on the game, shared in a poignant interview in 2014, underscored his enduring love for the gridiron, despite the toll it took on his body over the years.
Kolen’s impact extended beyond the confines of the football field. A devoted family man, he leaves behind a loving wife, Nancy, and two children, a testament to the depth of his character and the values he held dear. Additionally, his philanthropic endeavors and continued involvement with Auburn University, including the establishment of the Mike Kolen Award, exemplify his commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and giving back to the community that shaped him.
In the wake of Kolen’s passing, tributes have poured in from across the football fraternity, with former colleagues and admirers alike lauding his unwavering integrity, competitive spirit, and unwavering dedication to excellence. David Housel, former Auburn athletics director, encapsulated the sentiment shared by many, describing Kolen as not just a football player, but a beacon of resilience and goodness.
As we bid farewell to a true titan of the gridiron, let us remember Mike Kolen not only for his on-field heroics but for the indelible mark he left on the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him. In the hallowed halls of football lore, his legacy will endure as a shining example of courage, integrity, and the unyielding pursuit of greatness.
