The football world is mourning the loss of a true titan of the game. Sherman Lewis, a standout player at Michigan State and a four-time Super Bowl champion as an assistant coach, passed away Friday at the age of 83. Tributes poured in Saturday, led by his alma mater, which remembered him as one of the greatest players in school history.
Lewis played for the Spartans from 1960 to 1963, finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting as a running back in 1963. He was a three-time All-Big Ten selection and a consensus All-American that same year. After college, he played four seasons in the NFL, including two with the New York Jets. Michigan State released a statement saying, 'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sherman Lewis. Lewis, a first-team All-American in 1963, served as an assistant coach at MSU before a decorated NFL coaching career that included four Super Bowl titles. We send our deepest condolences to the Lewis family.'
But it was on the sidelines where Lewis truly cemented his legacy. After coaching at Michigan State from 1969 to 1982, he joined Bill Walsh's San Francisco 49ers staff in 1983 as running backs coach. There, he helped develop Roger Craig into a star, winning three Super Bowls between 1983 and 1990. He later spent a year as the 49ers' wide receivers coach, working with Jerry Rice. In 1992, he joined the Green Bay Packers as offensive coordinator, working alongside Brett Favre and Mike Holmgren. He won a fourth Super Bowl in 1996 and reached a fifth in 1997.
Despite working with future Hall of Famers like Craig, Favre, Rice, and Sterling Sharpe, Lewis never received a head coaching interview. He later served as offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings (2000-01), Detroit Lions (2003-04), and as an offensive consultant for the Washington Redskins in 2009 before retiring. His impact on the game is immeasurable, and his legacy will live on through the countless players and coaches he influenced.
The passing of Lewis comes as the football community also remembers other legends, like HBCU broadcasting icon Charlie Neal, who died at 80. Lewis's career spanned five decades, a testament to his dedication and love for the game. His contributions to the sport, from his playing days at Michigan State to his Super Bowl-winning coaching career, will never be forgotten.
Our hearts go out to Coach Lewis's family and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy as a player, coach, and mentor will continue to inspire future generations of football fans and athletes.
