Joseph John Bugel
Coach | Class of 2023
Hometown
Pittsburgh, PA
High School
Munhall High School
Deceased
June 28, 2020
College
Western Kentucky University
Professional Career
Detroit Lions (1975-1976 OL Coach)
Houston Oilers (1977-1980 OL Coach)
Washington Redskins (1981–1989 OC & OL Coach)
Phoenix Cardinals (1990-1993 Head Coach)
Oakland Raiders (1995–1997 Asst & Head Coach)
San Diego Chargers (1998-2001 OL Coach)
Washington Redskins (2004-2009 OL Coach)
Top NFL Statistics
NFL Career Highlights
Paul “Dr. Z” Zimmerman Award
(2018)
Super Bowl Champion (XVII, XXII)
(1983, 1988)
About Joseph John Bugel
Joseph John Bugel went from a dedicated college player to one of the most respected coaches in the NFL. Leaving a legacy through his leadership and coaching ability.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bugel played college football at Western Kentucky University, where he was an all-conference guard and linebacker. His passion for the game led him to pursue coaching, beginning as a graduate assistant at his alma mater.
Bugel’s early coaching career included positions at several universities, such as Navy and Ohio State. He sharpened his skills in developing players and making effective offensive strategies. His transition to the NFL began with roles as an offensive line coach for the Detroit Lions and the Houston Oilers, where he contributed to record setting offensive performances.
In 1981, Bugel joined the Washington Redskins as offensive coordinator and offensive line coach under head coach Joe Gibbs. It was here that he earned acclaim as the creator of “The Hogs,” the Redskins’ dominant offensive line unit. His coaching transformed players like Russ Grimm, Joe Jacoby, and Jeff Bostic into a formidable force, leading the team to multiple Super Bowl victories, including XVII and XXII.
Bugel’s success with the Redskins propelled him to head coaching positions with the Phoenix Cardinals from 1990 to 1993 and the Oakland Raiders in 1997.
After his head coaching stints, Bugel continued to share his expertise with teams like the San Diego Chargers and returned to the Redskins, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest offensive line coaches in NFL history. His career spanned 32 NFL seasons, during which he was instrumental in developing some of the league’s strongest offensive lines.
Bugel’s legacy in football goes way beyond X’s and O’s. He will always be remembered for the way he shaped the players around him. From his days as a college athlete to becoming one of the NFL’s most respected coaches, his journey shows how far passion can take you.