Finally, The Unsung Heroes Get Their Gold Jackets

It’s about damn time. Seriously. For too long, the Pro Football Hall of Fame has been, let’s just say, a little behind the curve when it comes to recognizing the true architects of this game. We talk about quarterbacks and linebackers, sure, but what about the guys who drew up the schemes, who coached the trenches, who turned special teams into an actual weapon? Well, the Hall is finally getting it right, at least a little, by announcing Mike Westhoff, Bobb McKittrick, and Ted Cottrell for the 2026 Awards of Excellence.

Look, this isn't a full enshrinement, but it's a step. And it's a massive nod to three coaches who, for decades, shaped the NFL. Westhoff, in particular, is a legend in special teams circles. He spent 15 seasons with the New York Jets, and his units were consistently among the league's best. Remember the "Miracle at the Meadowlands II" in 2010? The one where Brad Smith blocked a punt against the Eagles that led to a touchdown? That was a Westhoff unit. He had guys like Leon Washington returning kicks for touchdowns, including three in 2007 alone. He made special teams exciting, not just a bathroom break. The guy’s philosophy was simple: make plays, win games. And his players did.

Then you have Bobb McKittrick, the offensive line guru for the San Francisco 49ers during their dynasty years. He coached those dominant lines that protected Joe Montana and Steve Young, opening holes for Roger Craig and Ricky Watters. We’re talking about five Super Bowl rings for the 49ers with McKittrick running the show from 1979 to 1995. That offensive line was the backbone of Bill Walsh’s West Coast offense, often going against some of the fiercest defensive fronts in NFL history and consistently winning the battle. Guys like Randy Cross, Jesse Sapolu, and Harris Barton became Pro Bowlers under his tutelage. He preached technique, aggression, and unity. It’s hard to imagine those 49ers teams dominating without his influence.

And Ted Cottrell? The man was a defensive coordinator for 12 seasons in the NFL, known for his aggressive 4-3 schemes. His 2000 Buffalo Bills defense ranked third in the league in total defense, giving up just 286.7 yards per game. He squeezed every ounce of talent out of his players. He coached Ray Lewis with the Ravens, leading a unit that set records and eventually won a Super Bowl in 2000. He had a knack for developing linebackers and bringing pressure from all angles. His impact on how defenses played in the late 90s and early 2000s is seriously underestimated.

Here's the thing: these coaches aren't just names in old playbooks. They molded players, developed strategies, and directly contributed to championships. Their impact is quantifiable in wins, rings, and Pro Bowl selections for the players they coached. The Hall of Fame needs to recognize more of these behind-the-scenes masterminds. My hot take? Westhoff, McKittrick, and Cottrell being honored is just the beginning. I predict that within the next five years, the Hall will establish a dedicated "Coach's Wing" that goes beyond head coaches, finally giving these unsung heroes their permanent, proper place in Canton.