Monte Kiffin, a coaching legend and the father of Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin, has passed away at the age of 84. Known for his role as the mastermind behind the Tampa 2 defensive scheme, Kiffin had been working alongside his son as a player personnel analyst. The Kiffin family released a statement expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of support and asking for thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Throughout his nearly six-decade career, Monte Kiffin coached at seven universities and with eight NFL teams. Starting as a graduate assistant at the University of Nebraska, he later became the defensive coordinator for the Cornhuskers, helping lead the team to back-to-back national championships in 1970 and 1971. After a brief stint as the defensive coordinator at Arkansas, Kiffin took on his only head coaching job at N.C. State, finishing with a record of 16-17 over three seasons.
Transitioning to the NFL in 1983, Kiffin worked with various teams before returning to the college ranks in 2009. He found success as the defensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contributing to their Super Bowl victory in 2003. Kiffin’s impactful coaching career earned him a spot in the Buccaneers’ Ring of Honor, where he was remembered for his kindness, positivity, and dedication to the team.
Following his time in the NFL, Kiffin served as a defensive assistant for the Jacksonville Jaguars until 2016. Lane Kiffin, his son and current head coach at Ole Miss, shared heartfelt photos of himself with his father, honoring him as his hero.
Monte Kiffin’s legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements, as he leaves behind a lasting impact on the football community and those who had the privilege of working with him. His contributions to the sport will be remembered and celebrated by fans, players, and colleagues alike. May he rest in peace, free of pain and watching over his loved ones from above.