Ohio State legend at the center of NFL head coaching search controversy with Rooney Rule
Former Ohio State star and forever legend Eddie George is finally getting the recognition he deserves for his success as a head coach. The Tennessee State head coach earned an interview with the Chicago Bears in their expansive search, marking a big step up in George's career progression. But the Big South OVC Coach of […]
Former Ohio State star and forever legend Eddie George is finally getting the recognition he deserves for his success as a head coach. The Tennessee State head coach earned an interview with the Chicago Bears in their expansive search, marking a big step up in George's career progression.
But the Big South OVC Coach of the Year, with a 24-22 record after rebuilding the Tennessee State program, seems to be more of a pawn than an actual candidate. The NFL's Rooney Rule requires every team to interview at least one minority candidate before making an official hiring.
In 2023, George, a former All-Pro running back, participated as a temporary offseason staff member for the Bears through the NFL's Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship. He was in Chicago for the month of May before heading back to Nashville as he entered his third season at TSU.
Despite his accomplishments, the concern is clear that Chicago is merely using George to become compliant with a well-intentioned but flawed NFL rule. Chicago has already interviewed Ron Rivera, so it's possible that George's inclusion is more legitimate than some efforts, including New England's sham of a head coaching net that was always going to land on Mike Vrabel.
George is widely regarded as one of the better running backs in NFL history. Born on September 24, 1973, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, George rose to prominence during his collegiate career at Ohio State University.
As a Buckeye, he established himself as a powerhouse, winning the 1995 Heisman Trophy after rushing for an impressive 1,927 yards and 24 touchdowns in his senior season. His combination of size, speed, and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he left Ohio State as one of the program's all-time greats.
George was selected 14th overall by the Houston Oilers (later the Tennessee Titans) in the 1996 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award after rushing for 1,368 yards.
George was known for his durability, consistency, and punishing running style during his nine-season NFL career. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first five seasons, peaking in 2000 with 1,509 yards and 14 touchdowns.
One of George's most memorable moments came during the 1999 season when he helped lead the Titans to Super Bowl XXXIV. Though the Titans fell just short of victory against the St. Louis Rams, George's contributions were pivotal in their playoff run, particularly his 162-yard performance in the AFC Divisional Round.
A four-time Pro Bowl selection, George finished his career with 10,441 rushing yards and 68 rushing touchdowns, cementing his legacy as one of the NFL's most reliable and productive running backs.
Known for his leadership on and off the field, Eddie George was a workhorse who exemplified toughness and resilience, earning him a lasting place in football history.
