Former Miami Dolphins player, Mike Kolen, known for his perseverance, commitment, and being an integral part of the Dolphins’ historic 1972 undefeated season, died on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. He was 76 years old.
The news of Kolen’s passing was revealed by Auburn University, his alma mater. His football career began in the college fields of Auburn, Alabama, then transitioned to the professional NFL stadiums, and ultimately transitioned into the world of business and mentorship. His life journey exemplified a deep commitment to living with purpose and passion.
Kolen, a linebacker, played a crucial part in the Miami Dolphins’ undefeated season and their subsequent Super Bowl wins. His aggressive style of play earned him the nickname ‘Captain Crunch’, an indication of his physical prowess and exceptional leadership abilities both on and off the field.
Despite the physical strain of the sport, which led to joint replacements later in life, Kolen’s enthusiasm for football remained undiminished. “I never tried to hurt anybody, but football is a physical game,” Kolen once stated. His significant contributions to the game, especially during the Dolphins’ early 1970s dominance under Coach Don Shula, continue to inspire aspiring athletes.
During his time at Auburn University from 1967 to 1969, Kolen was known for his extraordinary performance and leadership skills. He received All-SEC honors during his junior and senior years and led his team in tackles in the majority of games he started. Every year, Auburn University honors his legacy by granting the Mike Kolen Award to the top tackler in recognition of his substantial contributions. Kolen was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 1985, a testament to his impactful collegiate career.
Kolen’s professional career was marked by significant achievements, including being a part of the Dolphins team that secured back-to-back Super Bowl wins and completed an undefeated season, a feat that remains unmatched in NFL history. His key interceptions in playoff games against football greats like Johnny Unitas and Terry Bradshaw significantly contributed to the Dolphins’ success. However, Kolen’s humility and his prioritization of team over personal glory were highly admired. “Mike Kolen is one of the finest men I’ve ever known,” said former Auburn athletics director David Housel, “A rock, a beacon.”
Post-retirement, Kolen ventured into the real estate and business sector, carrying forward the same principles that defined his football career. He maintained a strong connection with Auburn, presenting the Mike Kolen Award annually and expressing joy in recognizing and motivating the upcoming generation of players.
Kolen’s faith remained a consistent part of his life and career, earning him the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Hall of Champions induction in 2006. His faith-based work received multiple recognitions, including the National Christian Athlete of the Year Award in 1969 and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes College Athlete of the Year Award in 1970. “He was a great football player, but he was a better man,” Housel’s words echo, indicating that a person’s legacy is measured by the impact they leave on others.
Kolen is survived by his wife, Nancy, and their two children, Kelly and John.
