Steve Sidwell, Former New Orleans Saints Defensive Coordinator, Passes Away at 78
August 24, 2023
New Orleans, LA – The football world mourns the loss of Steve Sidwell, the former defensive coordinator of the New Orleans Saints, who passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 78. The team announced his death on Thursday, paying tribute to his contributions to the franchise.
Sidwell served as the Saints’ defensive coordinator from 1986 to 1994 under coach Jim Mora. During his tenure, the Saints’ defense, famously known as the “Dome Patrol,” was a force to be reckoned with. Led by Hall of Fame linebackers Rickey Jackson and Sam Mills, the defense twice led the league in fewest points allowed (1991, ’92), pass defense (1992, ’93), and once in run defense (1989). This era marked the first four playoff appearances in franchise history.
“For nine years, Steve Sidwell played an integral role in the success of the New Orleans Saints and helped develop several of the franchise’s greatest defensive players,” said Saints owner Gayle Benson in a statement. “The success of these teams and players continue to resonate with our organization and fan base to this day.”
Sidwell’s impact extended beyond the team’s success. He was inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame in 2004, a testament to his significant contributions to the organization.
Under Sidwell’s coaching, several players earned recognition and accolades. In total, seven players, including Jackson and Mills, received a combined 18 Pro Bowl selections. The 1992 season saw all four starting linebackers make it to the Pro Bowl. Additionally, linebacker Pat Swilling was named AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1991 after leading the league with 17 sacks.
Saints coach Dennis Allen underlined the importance of Sidwell’s legacy, stating, “He led the Dome Patrol defense, which is really the standard of defense for the New Orleans Saints. It’s what we aspire to be defensively.”
Sidwell’s impact on the team’s performance was evident in the statistics. The Saints’ defense tallied 408 quarterback takedowns during his nine-season tenure, ranking them third in the league. New Orleans’ defenses consistently ranked among the top five in net yards per game and run defense, as well as being in the NFL’s top three in pass defense on three occasions.
Before joining the Saints, Sidwell had a successful coaching career in college football, serving at Colorado, UNLV, and SMU. He entered the NFL ranks with the New England Patriots in 1982, and later joined the Indianapolis Colts in 1985. His coaching journey led him to the Houston Oilers (1995-96), Patriots (1997-99), and Seattle Seahawks (2000-02), where he continued to make an impact on the teams he served.
Saints owner Gayle Benson, reflecting on her late husband’s relationship with Sidwell, said in her statement, “My late husband Tom owned the team during Steve’s entire tenure and had a great affinity for him both as a coach and as a person. In addition to being an outstanding coach, Steve was also a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Sidwell family, including his wife Kathleen and two sons, Brad and Scott.”
Steve Sidwell’s contributions to the New Orleans Saints will forever be remembered, and his impact on the NFL will continue to be felt. His legacy as a skilled coach, mentor, and revered figure within the football community will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.