Darrell Bevell - NFL Coach Biography

Darrell Bevell is a seasoned NFL coach best known for his offensive acumen and key roles with several prominent teams. Born on January 6, 1970, Bevell began his football journey as a quarterback before transitioning into coaching, where he has made a significant mark as an offensive coordinator and interim head coach.

Playing Career

• College: Bevell played quarterback at the University of Wisconsin–Madison from 1992 to
  1995. He was instrumental in leading the Badgers to their first Rose Bowl victory in 1994, a landmark achievement for the program.
• Notable Stats: Bevell left Wisconsin as the school's all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns at the time.

Coaching Career

• Early Coaching: Bevell began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Westmar University and Iowa State University before moving to the NFL as an offensive assistant with the Green Bay Packers in 2000.
• Minnesota Vikings (2006–2010): Served as offensive coordinator, helping develop Pro Bowl players such as Adrian Peterson and Brett Favre.
• Seattle Seahawks (2011–2017): As offensive coordinator, Bevell was instrumental in guiding the Seahawks to two Super Bowl appearances (XLVIII, XLIX), winning Super Bowl XLVIII. He played a key role in the development of quarterback Russell Wilson and the team's prolific rushing attack led by Marshawn Lynch.
• Detroit Lions (2019–2020): Served as offensive coordinator and was named interim head coach for the final five games of the 2020 season.
• Jacksonville Jaguars (2021): Offensive coordinator and later interim head coach after the dismissal of Urban Meyer during the season.
• Miami Dolphins (2022–present): Joined the Dolphins as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator under head coach Mike McDaniel.

Highlights & Accomplishments

• Super Bowl Champion (XLVIII) with the Seattle Seahawks (2013 season)
• Developed multiple Pro Bowl players and was heavily involved in the rise of several top offenses in the NFL.
• Known for innovative play-calling and quarterback development, particularly with Russell Wilson in Seattle.

Notable Facts

• Bevell’s play-calling in critical moments, most notably the Seahawks’ final play in Super Bowl XLIX, remains one of the most discussed decisions in NFL history.
• Respected throughout the league for his leadership, adaptability, and positive relationships with players and staff.

Darrell Bevell continues to be a valued figure in NFL coaching circles, recognized for his experience, offensive strategy, and player development expertise.

Legacy & Career Overview

Darrell Bevell: NFL Coach Biography

Early Life and Background
Darrell Wayne Bevell was born on January 6, 1970, in Yuma, Arizona. Raised in a military family, Bevell moved frequently during his childhood, which included stints in various states before settling in Arizona. His father, Jim Bevell, was a high school football coach, a background that undoubtedly helped shape Darrell’s early passion and understanding for the game. College Playing Career
Bevell attended Chaparral High School in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he excelled as a quarterback. After high school, Bevell walked on at Northern Arizona University before transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. At Wisconsin, Bevell became a standout quarterback under head coach Barry Alvarez. He is best remembered for leading the Badgers to a historic 1993 Rose Bowl victory over UCLA—the school's first Rose Bowl win. Bevell finished his college career as Wisconsin's all-time leading passer, completing 646 of 1,052 passes for 7,686 yards, 59 touchdowns, and 39 interceptions. His leadership and game management skills were lauded, setting the foundation for his future coaching career. Transition to Coaching
After his playing days ended, Bevell shifted his focus to coaching. His journey up the coaching ranks began at Westmar University in Iowa, where he served as an assistant coach. He then returned to his alma mater, Wisconsin, as a graduate assistant. Bevell’s NFL coaching career began when he joined the Green Bay Packers in 2000 as an offensive assistant, eventually working his way up to quarterbacks coach. During his time in Green Bay, Bevell worked closely with Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre, helping to further develop Favre's legendary career. NFL Coaching Career

• Green Bay Packers (2000–2005): Bevell spent six seasons with the Packers, first as an offensive assistant and then as quarterbacks coach. His work with Brett Favre was instrumental, and he gained a reputation as a cerebral, innovative offensive mind.
• Minnesota Vikings (2006–2010): Bevell was hired as the offensive coordinator for the Vikings under head coach Brad Childress. In Minnesota, Bevell orchestrated offenses that featured stars like Adrian Peterson and, in 2009, a resurgent Brett Favre. That 2009 season was particularly memorable, as the Vikings reached the NFC Championship Game, and Favre had one of the best statistical seasons of his career.
• Seattle Seahawks (2011–2017): Bevell's tenure as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator was the most successful period of his coaching career. Under head coach Pete Carroll, Bevell helped mold a dynamic offense centered around quarterback Russell Wilson and running back Marshawn Lynch. The Seahawks reached the playoffs five times during Bevell’s tenure, including back-to-back Super Bowl appearances. In Super Bowl XLVIII, the Seahawks routed the Denver Broncos 43–8, capturing the franchise's first Super Bowl title. Bevell’s offense was known for its creativity, power running game, and play-action passing. However, his tenure was also marked by controversy—most notably, the decision to call a pass play on the 1-yard line in Super Bowl XLIX, which resulted in a game-sealing interception and a loss to the New England Patriots.
• Detroit Lions (2019–2020): After a stint out of football, Bevell became the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. He was promoted to interim head coach for the final five games of the 2020 season after the firing of Matt Patricia. Under Bevell’s leadership, the Lions went 1-4, but he earned praise for his steady hand during a tumultuous period for the franchise.
• Jacksonville Jaguars (2021): In 2021, Bevell joined the Jaguars as offensive coordinator under Urban Meyer. Following Meyer’s dismissal late in the season, Bevell was again named interim head coach, leading the team through its final four games.
• Miami Dolphins (2022–Present): Bevell was hired as the quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator for the Miami Dolphins, working under head coach Mike McDaniel. He played a key role in the development of Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins’ high-powered passing attack.

Coaching Philosophy and Legacy
Bevell is regarded as an innovative offensive mind, known for his adaptability and ability to develop young quarterbacks. His offenses have been marked by a strong running game, creative play-action passes, and a willingness to tailor schemes to player strengths. Though he has not yet been a full-time NFL head coach, Bevell’s multiple stints as interim head coach highlight his leadership and respect within NFL circles. Notable Accomplishments and Highlights

• Super Bowl Champion (XLVIII) as offensive coordinator of the Seattle Seahawks
• Two Super Bowl appearances with the Seahawks (XLVIII, XLIX)
• Guided the Vikings to the 2009 NFC Championship Game as offensive coordinator
• Instrumental in the development of quarterbacks including Brett Favre and Russell Wilson
• Wisconsin Badgers Hall of Fame inductee; led school to its first Rose Bowl victory

Personal Life
Away from football, Bevell is known for his humility, strong family values, and deep religious faith. He is married to Tammy, and the couple has three daughters. Bevell is active in his community and frequently participates in charity and youth football initiatives. Conclusion
Darrell Bevell’s career is marked by adaptability, perseverance, and a knack for offensive innovation. From his days as a record-setting college quarterback to his role in shaping NFL offenses and stepping in as interim head coach, Bevell has made a significant impact on the game. His leadership, offensive expertise, and ability to develop talent ensure he remains a respected figure in NFL coaching circles.