:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68792901/116614564.0.jpg)
The Chargers and the NFL community lost a legend this week as former head coach Marty Schottenheimer died on Monday in North Carolina. He had been battling Alzheimer’s since 2014 and was able to pass with his family by his side.
Legendary NFL coach Marty Schottenheimer, (77), peacefully passed away with family at his
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) February 9, 2021
side on Monday, February 8, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Schottenheimer had been
battling Alzheimer’s since 2014.
Schottenheimer was hired as the head coach of the Chargers prior to the 2002 NFL season. The team struggled in his first two years, but the Chargers’ 4-12 record in 2003 earned them the No. 1 overall pick — which ended up being quarterback Philip Rivers when all the Eli Manning-drama was over with.
The Bolts went 12-4 in 2004 and won the AFC West. After a 7-9 season in 2005, they vaulted to the top of the league in 2006 with a 14-2 record, another AFC West crown, and a record-breaking MVP season for running back LaDainian Tomlinson. Despite the success, a strained relationship between team president Dean Spanos and Schottenheimer led to a surprising exit for the head coach. He finished his time in San Diego with an overall record of 47-33 with an 0-2 mark in the playoffs.
the ultimate competitor pic.twitter.com/M7wkWs2PuK
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) February 9, 2021
Former players and coaches who worked with Schottenheimer are paying their respects this morning and sharing their favorite stories on social media.
Marty, you always said, "There's a gleam, men!" It's true, and that gleam is, and always was, YOU. Rest in peace Coach, love you. pic.twitter.com/PONiVZxm8f
— Bill Cowher (@CowherCBS) February 9, 2021
An absolute legend of the gridiron. Coach Marty Schottenheimer coached the Senior Bowl 4 times, representing the Chiefs and the Chargers, including the 2004 game where he got an up-close look at QB Philip Rivers prior to the NFL Draft. RIP Coach. pic.twitter.com/np3N9k7uUC
— Reese's Senior Bowl (@seniorbowl) February 9, 2021
God Bless You Coach. #martyschottenheimer pic.twitter.com/QQh8tuvp3U
— Nick Hardwick (@NickHardwick) February 9, 2021
RIP to my favorite coach in the NFL.
— Ross Tucker (@RossTuckerNFL) February 9, 2021
Talked about what made him special last week: pic.twitter.com/4bUCdicaq3
Rest in peace, Marty.