Don Shula
Inducted:
1997
Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
January 4, 1930
Grand River, Ohio, U.S.
Died:
May 4, 2020
Indian Creek, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Defensive back
Coach
College:
John Carroll
Don Shula built one of the greatest coaching legacies in NFL history, setting a standard for leadership, discipline, and sustained success. After a brief playing career, he moved into coaching and became the youngest head coach in the league when he took over the Baltimore Colts in 1963. Shula later joined the Miami Dolphins in 1970, where he built a dynasty defined by preparation and consistency. He led Miami to two Super Bowl titles, including the historic 1972 season—still the only perfect season in NFL history, finishing 17–0.
Known for adapting his system to his players, Shula won with both power run offenses and elite passing attacks. His 347 total victories remain the most by any coach in NFL history. Shula’s impact extended beyond wins, shaping the Dolphins’ identity for decades and mentoring many future coaches. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997, honoring a career unmatched in longevity and achievement.
Shula's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)
- NFL champion (1968)
- 4× AP NFL Coach of the Year (1964, 1967, 1968, 1972)
- Lamar Hunt Award (2013)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Most regular season wins as a head coach (328)
- Most total wins as a head coach (347)
- Coached only undefeated season through regular season and playoffs
- Most wins by a head coach in NFL history (347)
- Only coach to lead a team to a perfect season (1972 Dolphins)
NFL Teams
As Player:
Cleveland Browns (1951–1952)
Baltimore Colts (1953–1956)
Washington Redskins (1957)
As a coach:
Detroit Lions (1960–1962)
Baltimore Colts (1963–1969)
Miami Dolphins (1970–1995)
NFL Stats
As Player-
Games played:
73
Interceptions:
21
As Coach-
Regular season:
328–156–6 (.676)
Postseason:
19–17 (.528)
Career:
347–173–6 (.665)