Andy Reid has solidified his legacy as one of the most successful head coaches in NFL history, illustrating how experience can lead to sustained excellence. Since becoming head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2013, Reid has led the team to impressive heights, including 11 playoff appearances and three Super Bowl victories. Though he is currently 66 years old—the oldest active head coach in the NFL by five years—he shows no signs of slowing down. This past season, the Chiefs finished with a remarkable 15-2 record, securing the AFC's top seed.
Reid's remarkable tenure spans over 26 seasons, where he has previously excelled as head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. Under his direction, the Chiefs have not only made playoffs 11 times but have also captured three Super Bowl championships—2019, 2022, and 2023. If they defeat their rivals next year, Reid will continue cementing his status among the oldest coaches to achieve this feat, potentially winning his fourth Super Bowl crown shortly before his 68th birthday.
“I’ve been with her for about 40 years now,” Reid expressed, referring to his enduring partnership with his wife, Tammy Reid. Their relationship is not only significant to his personal life but also exemplifies the support system behind his professional success. The couple, who met at Brigham Young University, married on August 8, 1981, and have five children together—Britt, Spencer, Crosby, Drew-Ann, and the late Garrett.
Tammy Reid often humorously proclaims, “I’m the head coach of our family.” She has been the anchor during Reid's demanding career, managing their household and nurturing their children through multiple relocations across the country as Reid climbed the coaching ladder, from BYU to various colleges and the NFL. Reflecting on their unique bond, she said, “Even though he is the patriarch and does all these great things for our family, I kind of run everything when he's not around.”
Throughout his coaching career, Reid has balanced the pressures of the NFL with the responsibilities of family life, constantly moving for his career. “You have to be positive and just jump right back,” Tammy stated, showcasing her resilience as she followed her husband to eight different states over the years due to his coaching commitments. Each of their five children were born in different locations, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of an NFL family.
While Reid's professional life has been celebrated, it has not been without heartache. The couple faced the tragic loss of their eldest son, Garrett, who passed away from an accidental heroin overdose at 29. His death cast a long shadow over Reid's career, particularly as he had to manage his grief during the 2012 NFL season, just weeks after the tragedy. “We loved Garrett so much. He was wonderful,” Reid recalled. “Even though he lost the battle... we will always know him as a fighter who had a huge, loving heart.”
Reid's ability to navigate personal tragedy speaks volumes about his character and commitment both as a father and coach. After the Chiefs won the Super Bowl 2020, he couldn’t help but think of Garrett, stating, “You can’t help but think of him.” His daughter, Crosby, reflected on their family’s victory, sharing, “It was huge, seeing my dad’s dream finally come true... Garrett’s spirit was there.”
The supportive environment Reid and Tammy have established extended to their family, where the couple's focus on family values is evident. Their son Britt Reid, who has now stepped onto the path of coaching under his father, spoke fondly of his late brother, reminiscing about how much support Garrett would have offered during their success. “We all miss him. He would love this. He loved sports, he loved football,” he said.
Reid's coaching success, characterized by a strong record, intelligent drafting, and the ability to nurture talent, showcases his effective leadership both on and off the field. His coaching roots, which can be traced back to his early days at Glendale Community College then at BYU, paved the way for his successful stints with the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles. His coaching philosophy has consistently evolved, blending traditional strategies with modern tactics to create winning teams.
“He’ll be remembered as one of the greatest coaches of all time,” remarked Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie. Reid's career reflects the dedication and resilience it takes to thrive not only in the football world but also as a family man. Despite recent changes within the NFL emphasizing younger coaches, Reid stands out as both the oldest and one of the most successful—his achievements speak volumes about his ability to adapt and innovate.
With three Super Bowl titles and numerous division championships highlighted by his ability to connect with players, Reid shows no signs of retirement. He continues to build his impressive legacy with the Chiefs and cultivates the next generation of football talent, proving age is no barrier to success.