Jim Johnson

Jim Johnson, decorated defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, passed away today after a battle with melanoma. I had planned to write an exciting blog about David Beckham and his relationship with American fans, but this seemed more important.

When the news passed across the ESPN screen that Jim Johnson passed away half of the bar was confused as to which Jim Johnson it was. One patron asked if it was the race car driver or the former coach of the Cowboys and Dolphins. See Jim Johnson of the Eagles was an anonymous contributor to casual sports fans. He did his job well with very little fanfare.

Early in Jim Johnson's career he was a head coach for a couple of colleges. He served as a defensive coach under Dan Devine, legendary football coach. In the NFL, Johnson paid his dues. He was a defensive backs and linebacker coach for a variety of teams before finally landing the defensive coordinator position with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1999. Head coach Andy Reid trusted Jim Johnson and handed him the reins of the defense almost immediately. Under the watchful eye of Johnson, the Eagles defense was dominant and efficient. In his first year as defensive coordinator Johnson's defense forced 46 turnovers, best in the NFL that year. The defense also had a 34 game stretch of allowing 21 points or less. That is second longest of all time. Johnson's defense produced 10 pro bowlers with 26 selections. It would be an understatement to say that he was one of the very best at what he did.

In a day of Mike Vick and Brett Farve dominated sports coverage, it was sad that this was the news to break the monotony. I, being a Dallas Cowboys fan in passing, had to watch the work of Jim Johnson in awe and anger. But he was undeniably great. Jim Johnson dead today at 68. Live like no one is watching and respect the competition.