Jack Pardee was a former American football linebacker and coach who had a successful career in both playing and coaching. He played college football at Texas A&M University and was a two-time All-American. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1957 and played for them for five seasons before being traded to the Washington Redskins in 1963. He played for the Redskins for six seasons and was named to the Pro Bowl three times.
After retiring from playing, Pardee began his coaching career as an assistant coach for the Florida Blazers of the World Football League. He then became the head coach of the Chicago Bears in 1975 and led them to the playoffs in his first season. He also coached the Houston Oilers and the University of Houston before returning to the NFL as the head coach of the Washington Redskins in 1981. He led the Redskins to the playoffs in his first season and was named the NFL Coach of the Year.
Pardee then went on to coach the Chicago Bears again as well as the Houston Cougars and the Birmingham Fire of the World League of American Football. He retired from coaching in 1994 with a career record of 87-77-1 in the NFL and 22-11 in college football.
Throughout his career, Pardee was known for his toughness and his ability to motivate his players. He was also known for his innovative coaching strategies, including the use of the 3-4 defense, which he helped popularize in the NFL.
Pardee was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer in 2012 and passed away in April 2013 at the age of 76. He was remembered by his former players and colleagues as a great coach and a great person who had a positive impact on the lives of those around him.
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