Ep 13. Kevin Greene

Kevin Greene was a former NFL linebacker who played for 15 seasons before retiring in 1999. During his career, he amassed 160 career sacks, which ranks him as the third-highest player in NFL history. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016. In this episode of A Football Life, we take a closer look at the life and career of this legendary player.

The episode begins with a glimpse into Kevin's early life, growing up in Schenectady, New York. We learn about his passion for football from an early age and how he worked tirelessly to become a top-notch player. Football was a way of life for Kevin, and he was determined to make a name for himself on the field.

As we delve deeper into Kevin's career, we hear from former teammates, coaches, and family members who provide insight into his life as a player and as a person. They recount stories of Kevin's infectious enthusiasm, fierce determination, and relentless work ethic. They also touch on his unique personality, with many describing him as an outgoing, larger-than-life character.

One of the most notable aspects of Kevin's career is his incredibly high sack count. The episode explores this in detail, analyzing his technique, his mindset, and his approach to the game. We hear from legendary coaches like Bill Cowher and Dom Capers, who worked with Kevin at different points in his career and who provide fascinating insights into the player's success.

Another key topic covered in the episode is Kevin's role as a mentor to younger players. We hear from several players who worked with Kevin, including Jared Allen, who say that Kevin's influence was critical to their development as players. Kevin was known for taking rookies under his wing and pushing them to become the best versions of themselves, on and off the field.

Throughout the episode, we get a real sense of the passion and dedication that drove Kevin throughout his career. He was a fierce competitor who never gave up, no matter how tough the challenge. This is exemplified by his decision to continue playing football even after being diagnosed with cancer in 2014. Kevin passed away in 2020, but his legacy as a player and as a person lives on.

Overall, this episode of A Football Life provides a fascinating insight into the career of one of the NFL's most legendary players. Through interviews, archival footage, and analysis, we gain a deeper understanding of what made Kevin Greene such a unique and special talent. Fans of American football and those interested in the game's history are sure to enjoy this episode.