Mike Cofer was a professional football player who played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He was born on April 7, 1960, in Knoxville, Tennessee, and attended the University of Tennessee, where he played college football for the Volunteers.
Cofer was selected by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 1983 NFL Draft. He played for the Lions from 1983 to 1992 and was a key member of their defense during his tenure with the team. Cofer was known for his speed and agility, which made him an effective pass rusher and coverage linebacker.
During his career, Cofer played in 123 games and recorded 62.5 sacks, 8 interceptions, and 6 fumble recoveries. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 1988 and was a two-time All-Pro selection in 1988 and 1989. Cofer was also a member of the Lions' 1983 and 1991 playoff teams.
Cofer's best season came in 1988 when he recorded 12 sacks and helped lead the Lions to a 10-6 record and a playoff berth. He was named the Lions' Defensive Player of the Year that season and was also named to the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams.
Cofer's career came to an end in 1992 when he suffered a knee injury that forced him to retire from football. He finished his career with 62.5 sacks, which ranks him fourth on the Lions' all-time list.
After retiring from football, Cofer worked as a motivational speaker and also served as a volunteer coach for the football team at his alma mater, the University of Tennessee. He was also involved in various charitable organizations, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the American Cancer Society.
Cofer passed away on March 21, 2019, at the age of 58 after a long battle with a rare form of cancer. He was remembered by his former teammates and coaches as a fierce competitor and a great teammate who always put the needs of the team ahead of his own.
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