Joe Bugel was the heart and soul behind the Washington Redskins’ iconic “Hogs” offensive line. He’s remembered as one of the NFL’s most influential and beloved coaches. Over his 32-season career, Bugel helped shape one of the most dominant offensive lines in football history, leading to three Super Bowl appearances. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and leadership, Bugel’s coaching legacy extended far beyond the field. His tireless commitment to developing offensive linemen and his larger-than-life personality made him a cornerstone of the Redskins’ success in the 1980s.
Joe Bugel Vitals
Position: Assistant Coach
Born: Munhall, PA
Date-of-Birth: March 10, 1940
High School: Munhall, PA
College: Western Kentucky
NFL Career: 32 Seasons
Washington Redskins 1981-1989, 2004-2009
Career Highlights
- Two-time Super Bowl Champion (XVII, XXII)
- Three Super Bowl Appearances
- Washington Redskins Ring of Fame 2010
- Washington Redskins 90 Greatest
- Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame (2005)
Awards
- PFWA Jack Horrigan Award 2002
- George Halas Courage Award 2010
- Order of the Leather Helmet
Joe Bugel: Boss Hog
Joe Bugel was one of the most beloved coaches in the history of the Washington Redskins. He was also one of the greatest offensive line coaches that the game has ever seen.
He was born on March 10, 1940, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was raised in the small town of Munhall, Pennsylvania. From an early age, Joe had a love for football, and he played the sport throughout his high school and college years.
After graduating from Munhall High School, Joe went on to attend Western Kentucky University, where he played college football for the Hilltoppers. He was a standout offensive tackle for the team, earning all-conference honors in his senior year.
Following his graduation in 1964, Joe embarked on a coaching career, starting at his alma mater as a graduate assistant. Over the next few years, Joe worked as an assistant coach at several colleges, including Navy, Iowa State, and Ohio State.
Joe Bugel: NFL Bound
In 1975, he made his way to the NFL. The Detroit Lions hired him as their offensive line coach. From there, he moved to the Houston Oilers in the same position from 1977-1980.
In 1981, he landed with the Washington Redskins and Joe Gibbs. He became both the offensive line coach, and the offensive coordinator. In 1983, the team gave him the additional title of Assistant Coach.
Joe Bugel’s colorful personality and love for football were well known. He was a beloved figure among his players, and his energy and enthusiasm were infectious. He often stood on the sidelines, shouting encouragement to his players and celebrating their successes.
Bring On The Hogs
It was that personality that largely contributed to him being responsible for developing the famous “Hogs” offensive line. His tenure as the team’s offensive line coach from 1981 to 1989 made an unforgettable impact. He transformed the group into one of the most dominant units in NFL history, which led to the team ultimately winning three Super Bowl championships.
A group of talented offensive linemen made up the Hogs, but under Bugel’s guidance, the players developed into a cohesive unit that overpowered even the most fearsome defensive lines in the league.
Bugel coached with enthusiasm, passion, and attention to detail. He pushed his players to their limits during intense practices, demanding perfection in every aspect of their game. He was also a master motivator, always looking for ways to inspire his players and get the best out of them.
Much of the success of The Hogs was due in part to Bugel’s unique approach to coaching. He understood that people often overlooked offensive linemen in football and believed they deserved more recognition.. He embraced their hard-nosed, blue-collar style of play, and his enthusiasm for their work helped build a strong bond between coach and players.
Cultural Phenomenon
The Hogs impacted more than just the football. They became a cultural phenomenon, and inspiring generations of Redskins fans. The team’s success under Bugel’s coaching led to a surge in popularity for the Redskins, and The Hogs became an iconic symbol of the team’s dominance during the 1980s.
In many ways, Joe Bugel and The Hogs changed the course of football history. They proved that an offensive line could be just as important to a team’s success as its quarterbacks and running backs, and they inspired a generation of fans and players to embrace the blue-collar style of play that had made them so successful. Washington D.C. and the wider football community will always remember Bugel’s legacy as a testament to passion, dedication, and hard work.
Post Washington
The Phoenix Cardinals hired Joe as their head coach in 1990 because of his success with the Redskins. He never seemed to quite take off in the role, but served as the head coach until 1993.
After a little time off, buges joined the Oakland Raiders as the Assistant Head Coach for offense in 1995 and 1996. He was the head coach there in 1997.
Then he joined the San Diego Chargers from 1998 until 2001 as the Offensive Line Coach.
Joe Bugel Back To D.C.
Then of course came the return of the Joes to Washington. Dan Snyder hired Joe Gibbs to take over the Redskins in 2004. He brought his old friend Buges back with him to coach up the offensive line. Although the team didn’t experience as much success, they made the playoffs twice, and Joe proved he could still get it done.
He remained in that position until 2009.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame never inducted Bugel, despite his impressive resume. People across the NFL widely respect him as one of the best offensive line coaches in history, and no one denies his lasting contributions to the sport.
Sadly, Joe Bugel passed away on June 28, 2020. He was 80 years old.
Away From The Grid Iron
In addition to his coaching career, Joe was a devoted husband and father. Joe and his wife, Brenda, were married for over 50 years and together raised three daughters—Angie, Jennifer, and Holly.
In his retirement, he remained active in the football community, attending games and events and continuing to support the sport he loved.
The football community mourned his death, as many of his former players and colleagues paid tribute to his legacy. Fans will always remember him as a legend of the game—a coach who inspired his players and shaped countless men.
Kentucky Hall Of Fame
The Kentucky Hall of Fame posthumously inducted Joe in 2023.
