Was Mike Shanahan a football player?

Mike Shanahan, a renowned figure in the realm of football coaching, did not pursue a professional playing career.

However, his early experiences on the football field began during his high school years at East Leyden High School in Franklin Park, Illinois.

Shanahan showcased his skills as a wishbone quarterback for coach Jack Leese’s Eagles teams in 1968 and 1969. Notably, he held the single-game rushing record of 260 yards on 15 carries, a feat that stood until 1976 when it was broken.

Following his successful high school football stint, Shanahan continued his athletic journey at Eastern Illinois University, where he played as a quarterback. However, his playing career took an unexpected turn in 1972 when a severe hit on the practice field ruptured one of his kidneys, causing his heart to stop for thirty seconds.

This life-threatening incident led to Shanahan’s abrupt exit from playing football, and a priest was called to administer the last rites due to the severity of the situation.

Undeterred by the premature end of his playing career, Shanahan transitioned into coaching. After completing his studies, he embarked on a coaching career, starting as an assistant coach at Northern Arizona University and later at the University of Oklahoma.

Returning to his alma mater, Shanahan took on the role of offensive coordinator and played a pivotal part in securing the Division II football championship for Eastern Illinois University.

His coaching journey further evolved as he assumed the position of offensive coordinator for the University of Minnesota for a single season. Subsequently, Shanahan ventured into the collegiate coaching landscape, accepting the same role at the University of Florida under head coach Charley Pell in 1980.

While Mike Shanahan may not have carved out a professional playing career, his impactful contributions to football unfolded through his coaching endeavors.

The resilience displayed in overcoming the challenges of a premature end to his playing days laid the foundation for a coaching legacy that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.