Mike Kolen’s passing marks the loss of a true football legend. Known for his tenure with the Miami Dolphins, Kolen played a significant role in the team’s success during the 1970s, including being part of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins team and the Super Bowl-winning squad in 1973.
His impact extended beyond his accomplishments on the field. Described as one of the finest men by former Auburn athletics director David Housel, Kolen’s character, toughness, and competitive spirit were renowned qualities that went beyond football. His nickname “Captain Crunch” reflected his ferocity and leadership on the gridiron.
Kolen’s involvement in one of the most famous plays in NFL history, the “Sea of Hands” play, further solidified his place in football lore. Despite the outcome of that play marking the end of the Dolphins’ dynasty, Kolen’s contributions to the sport and his legacy as a player and a man remain enduring.
His passing is a loss not only for the football community but also for those who knew him personally, as he was remembered not just for his athletic prowess but for the qualities that made him a beloved figure both on and off the field.
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