Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Miami Dolphin Dead At 76

Former professional football player Mike Kolen, best known as a mainstay on the 1972 Miami Dolphins team that went undefeated all season, passed away this week at the age of 76. No cause of death has been released.

Kolen was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1970 as a twelfth-round pick. He started every game for them as a linebacker, eventually earning the title “Captain Crunch.” During his college career, Mike played for Auburn, where he was a two-time All-SEC selection.

Former Auburn Athletic Director, David Housel released a statement following Kolen’s passing.

“Mike Kolen is one of the finest men I’ve ever known,”

“Being a football player was secondary to Mike Kolen. He’s one of the greatest football players Auburn ever had, but he was much more. A rock, a beacon.”

“When I think of Mike Kolen, I think of toughness, competitiveness, and a quality of goodness. He was a great football player, but he was a better man.”

Fox News

Kolen played for the Dolphins during their undefeated season in 1972 and was also involved in one of the most famous plays in NFL history. Now referred to as the “Sea of Hands” game, in December 1974, just two years after their 1972 Super Bowl win, the Dolphins faced the Raiders in the playoffs. With just 35 seconds left in the game, the Dolphins were on the verge of advancing. Under pressure, Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler threw a feeble pass to his running back, Clarence Davis. Despite being surrounded by three Dolphins defenders, Davis managed to catch the ball, securing the victory and putting an end to the Dolphins’ dynasty.

Throughout his career, Kolen received two All-SEC selections, two Super Bowl titles, and was selected to the second team All-Pro in his rookie season. Mike played 84 games in total for the Miami Dolphins and had five interceptions during that period.

Kolen lived in Birmingham, Alabama with his wife, Nancy.

Rest in peace!