 Herman Edwards was named head coach of the New York Jet's in
January of 2001. The former standout defensive back earned the reputation as an
excellent communicator and one of the best teachers of the game during his years
as assistant head coach/defensive backfield coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
(1996-2000).
As a collegiate player, Herman Edwards began his college
career at the University of California, playing there in 1972 and 1974, earning
Pac-8 (now Pac-10) honors and setting a Golden Bears record with four
interceptions in one game. During the 1973 season, Herman Edwards played at
Monterey Peninsula JC, before playing his senior season at San Diego State and
graduating with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.
Following his collegiate career, Herman Edwards played ten
seasons in the NFL, including nine with Philadelphia (1977-85) after signing as
a rookie free agent. Herman Edwards started his first preseason game at
cornerback and proceeded to start the next 135 regular season games over his
stellar Eagle career. Herman Edwards' career was highlighted by second team All-NFC
selections in 1980 and 1982, and a Super Bowl XV appearance versus the Raiders.
He departed Philadelphia with a 33 career interceptions, including five in the
postseason, which currently ranks second behind Bill Bradley and Eric Allen for
the team-record of 34. Herman Edwards' played in four games for Los Angeles Rams
and three for the Atlanta Falcons before announcing his retirement in 1986.
While with Tampa Bay, Herman Edwards and the Buccaneers'
secondary implemented a youth enrichment program called "Focus and Finish,"
encouraging high school athletes to excel in academics, athletics and as
citizens in their communities through volunteering, tutoring and mentoring.
Herman Edwards and his wife, Lia have also hosted the Herman Edwards Football
Camp for underprivileged children in the Monterey Peninsula for the past six
years and they hope to run a similar camp in the New York area. Herman Edwards
and Lia have one son, Marcus, who is currently a student-athlete (wide receiver)
at the University of South Florida.
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