The NFL lost an icon with the passing of Marty Schottenheimer at 77, after battling Alzheimer’s since 2014. Schottenheimer finished his 21-year NFL coaching career with the eighth-most wins in league history (totaling a 200-126-1 record) and was named 2004 Coach of the Year for his efforts with the then-San Diego Chargers.
And his quarterback that year? New Orleans Saints passer Drew Brees, who earned his first career Pro Bowl selection in 2004 under Schottenheimer’s guidance. Brees reacted to news of his former coach’s death on social media.
“The lessons and wisdom of Marty Schottenheimer will forever ring in my ears,” Brees wrote from his official Instagram account. “He loved his players and he loved his family. I am so grateful and honored to have played for him. Rest In Peace Coach Marty!”
