The Denver Broncos are mourning the death of legendary defensive coordinator Joe Collier after the architect of the ‘Orange Crush’ defense died at age 91 on Tuesday.
Collier, who was also the head coach of the Buffalo Bills (1966-1968), passed away at his home in Littleton, Colorado, and is survived by his longtime partner Sue Henry and his three children: Joel, Julie and Lisa.
He was hired by the Broncos in 1969 and worked for the franchise for 19 years (until 988). He first served as Denver’s defensive backs coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator.
A statement released by the Broncos on X, Tuesday, read: ‘The architect of the famed Orange Crush defense, Joe Collier is one of the most impactful coaches in the history of the Denver Broncos and regarded among the best defensive coordinators of all-time.
‘He was an innovator in the NFL with his 3-4 defense, helping the Broncos to three Super Bowl appearances during a legendary career with our franchise that spanned more than two decades.’
More to follow…
