Colts owner Jim Irsay is operating his franchise with a heavy heart this Thursday. That’s because longtime NFL coach Steve Sidwell passed away.
Sidwell coached in the NFL for 21 years. Although he’s known for his stint as the defensive coordinator of the Saints, he actually spent one season as a defensive line coach for the Colts.
With that said, Irsay released a statement on Sidwell’s death.
“So sad to hear of the passing of STEVE SIDWELL,” Irsay wrote on social media. “Steve was a terrific assistant coach during a 22 year NFL career (incl. w/Colts in mid-‘80s)—-and he was MY position coach in college at SMU. Sincere condolences to the Sidwell family. Rest in peace, coach.”
So sad to hear of the passing of STEVE SIDWELL. Steve was a terrific assistant coach during a 22 year NFL career (incl. w/Colts in mid-‘80s)—-and he was MY position coach in college at SMU. Sincere condolences to the Sidwell family. Rest in peace, coach. 🙏
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) August 24, 2023
Saints owner Gayle Benson also issued a statement on this heartbreaking news.
“For nine years, Steve Sidwell played an integral role in the success of the New Orleans Saints and helped develop several of the franchise’s greatest defensive players,” Benson said. “The success of these teams and players continue to resonate with our organization and fan base to this day. My late husband Tom owned the team during Steve’s entire tenure and had a great affinity for him both as a coach and as a person. In addition to being an outstanding coach, Steve was also a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Sidwell family, including his wife Kathleen and two sons, Brad and Scott.”
Saints mourn the passing of former defensive coordinator Steve Sidwell 🙏
Sidwell oversaw some of the most dominant defenses in the franchise’s history from 1986-94https://t.co/5S89sfwSrV
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) August 24, 2023
Sidwell’s legacy will not be forgotten, that’s for sure.
Our thoughts are with the Sidwell family.