Doug Blevins, who coached college and N.F.L. kickers like Adam Vinatieri and Justin Tucker, passed away on Sunday in Johnson City, Tennessee at the age of 60. Despite never playing football due to cerebral palsy, he successfully trained kickers and left a lasting impact on the sport.
His son, Roman, confirmed that Doug died from complications of esophageal cancer in a hospital.
From a young age, Doug was captivated by football and particularly kicking techniques. He immersed himself in studying games, videos, and books. His dedication led him to correspond with a former Dallas Cowboys kicking coach, Ben Agajanian, and analyze instructional videos to enhance kicking skills at his high school.
Despite his physical limitations, Doug was determined to make it to the N.F.L. and taught himself the mechanics of place-kicking, punting, and kickoffs. His analytical approach and coaching from his motorized wheelchair earned him a reputation as a kicking guru.
Some of Doug’s notable students included Vinatieri, Tucker, and Mare, who achieved significant success in the N.F.L. under his guidance. His expertise caught the attention of the New York Jets’ general manager, Dick Steinberg, leading to a pivotal role as the team’s kicking consultant.
Doug’s coaching career extended to the World League of American Football, where he trained soccer players to transition into N.F.L.-style kickers and selected kickers for the teams.
During his tenure with the Miami Dolphins, Doug helped kickers like Mare improve their performance by focusing on technical aspects of their kicks. His attention to detail and dedication to his craft made him a valuable asset to the teams he worked with.
After his N.F.L. stints, Doug continued to mentor kickers individually and coached at various colleges. His passion for coaching and love for football never wavered, despite the challenges he faced due to his disability.
Doug Blevins leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and dedication to his craft. His impact on the world of football and the lives of the players he coached will always be remembered and cherished.
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