The Defense Rests

Jim Johnson, defensive coordinator emeritus for the Philadelphia Eagles, has succumbed to melanoma at the age of 68. Renowned for his blitzing techniques, his defenses led the Eagles to 5 NFC Championship games in the 10 years since being named defensive coordinator. In 2001, the defense became the 4th team in NFL history to not allow 21 points in a game, and eventually ran their streak to 34 games, second best in history. Over the course of his tenure, Eagles defenders racked up 26 Pro Bowl selections. Prior to joining the Eagles, he helped Notre Dame win the 1977 National Championship as defensive backs coach, and was later promoted to defensive coordinator and assistant head coach.