Bill Cowher
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
225 lb (102 kg)
Born:
May 8, 1957
Crafton, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
Coach
College:
NC State
Bill Cowher led the Pittsburgh Steelers with intensity, discipline, and passion for 15 seasons as head coach from 1992 to 2006. Known for his signature chin and sideline fire, Cowher quickly made history by taking the Steelers to the playoffs in each of his first six seasons—tying an NFL record. He guided the team to eight division titles, 10 playoff appearances, and two Super Bowl trips, culminating in a championship win in Super Bowl XL.
A defensive-minded leader, Cowher’s teams were always tough, physical, and consistent contenders. He finished with a stellar 149–90–1 regular-season record and 12 playoff wins. His leadership style earned respect from players, fans, and peers alike. In 2020, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, joining the legendary lineage of Steelers coaching excellence. Cowher's legacy endures as one of the most successful and respected coaches of the modern NFL era.
Cowher's Awards and Records
- Super Bowl champion (XL)
- AP NFL Coach of the Year (1992)
- 2× Sporting News NFL Coach of the Year (1992, 2004)
- Best Coach/Manager ESPY Award (2006)
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Second-ever coach to take his team to the playoffs in each of his first 6 seasons (1992–1997)
NFL Teams
As a player:
Philadelphia Eagles (1979)
Cleveland Browns (1980–1982)
Philadelphia Eagles (1983–1984)
As a coach:
Cleveland Browns (1985–1986)
Cleveland Browns (1987–1988)
Kansas City Chiefs (1989–1991)
Pittsburgh Steelers (1992–2006)
Number Worn:
53, 57
NFL Stats
As Player
NFL Seasons:
6
Games Played:
45
Games Started:
4
Fumble recoveries:
1
As Coach
Regular season:
149–90–1 (.623)
Postseason:
12–9 (.571)
Career:
161–99–1 (.619)