Joe Collier, the legendary architect of the Denver Broncos’ famed “Orange Crush” defense and former Buffalo Bills head coach, has died at the age of 91. Collier’s family confirmed that he passed away at his home in Littleton, Colorado, on Monday night.
The Broncos issued a statement recognizing Collier’s monumental contributions to the team’s history, noting that he was “one of the most impactful coaches in the history of the Denver Broncos and regarded among the best defensive coordinators of all time.” Collier’s innovative approach to the game and his development of the 3-4 defense helped the Broncos reach three Super Bowl appearances during his tenure, marking him as a crucial figure in the franchise’s success.
An Architect of Success
Joe Collier spent 20 seasons on the Broncos’ coaching staff, from 1969 to 1988, guiding the team to a 168-132-7 record, five division titles, and Super Bowl appearances after the 1977, 1986, and 1987 seasons. His leadership of the “Orange Crush” defense, one of the most feared units in the NFL, solidified his reputation as a defensive mastermind.
Under Collier’s guidance, the Broncos reached their first Super Bowl after the 1977 season, where they defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers and Oakland Raiders in the playoffs to win the AFC Championship. Although they lost to the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl XII, Collier’s defense was a major reason for Denver’s emergence as a perennial contender in the 1970s and 1980s.
The Denver Broncos announced the passing of former defensive coordinator Joe Collier, who died Monday night at his home in Littleton, Colo., at the age of 91. Collier was the leader and architect of Denver’s “Orange Crush” defense, spent 20 seasons on the Broncos’ coaching staff… pic.twitter.com/52Ccp6IOFt
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 7, 2024
A Coach of Distinction
Before joining the Broncos, Collier served as head coach of the Buffalo Bills from 1966 to 1968, leading the team to the AFL Eastern Division title in 1966 with a 9-4-1 record. He began his professional coaching career with the Boston Patriots as an assistant from 1960 to 1961 and later coached the Bills’ linebackers and defensive backs from 1962 to 1965.
Collier’s tenure with the Broncos was surpassed only by Mike Shanahan’s 21 years. He provided steady leadership to five different head coaches during his time in Denver and influenced numerous players and coaches, including 12 Broncos Ring of Famers, 11 Pro Bowl selections, and 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Randy Gradishar.
In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Collier expressed his happiness over Gradishar’s induction into the Hall of Fame, stating, “It’s long overdue. I couldn’t be prouder of him. Randy was a great leader of our defense.”
Legacy and Impact
Joe Collier’s innovative defensive strategies and his role in shaping the Broncos’ success have left an indelible mark on the NFL. His ability to adapt and innovate contributed to the Broncos’ rise to prominence, earning him respect throughout the league.
Collier is survived by three children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for the Broncos and the NFL, but his legacy will continue to inspire coaches and players for years to come.
