Sports World Reacts to Passing of Don Shula

Legendary Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula has died at the age of 90. Shula led the 1972 Miami Dolphins to the only undefeated NFL season on record and remarkably posted only two losing seasons during his 33-year career. He collected an all-time record 347 wins on the sidelines, a mark that may stand forever if Bill Belichick doesn't break it in the coming years.

Shula, who also played seven years as a defensive back, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.

Those who covered, worked or otherwise crossed paths with the coaching great shared their memories on Monday morning:

Roger Goodell’s statement on the passing of legendary HC Don Shula: pic.twitter.com/LW2XCU0J0I
— Andersen Pickard (@AndersenPickard) May 4, 2020

My most treasured day as a sports reporter: On the day before Don Shula’s 80th birthday, he invited me to his house. We spent hours on his veranda, overlooking Biscayne Bay, as he told story after story, treating me not like a reporter but like a grandson. I will never forget it.
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) May 4, 2020

A legend has left us https://t.co/9wSNsXIslQ
— trey wingo (@wingoz) May 4, 2020

We lost one of the most iconic men in the history of NFL coaching in Don Shula. His leadership and wisdom helped to guide me and many others who have made a life in coaching football. Thank you Coach Shula. May your spirit and legacy live on forever. RIP
— Bill Cowher (@CowherCBS) May 4, 2020

Joe Namath didn't play for Don Shula, but the two have been linked from Super Bowl III on. Just talked to Joe. "Coach Shula had dedication, determination, passion to do things the proper way. And he didn't BS people."
— Sam Farmer (@LATimesfarmer) May 4, 2020

"You can't tell the story of this league... without a chapter on Don Shula." - @JasonLaCanfora pic.twitter.com/SRMhR6fbVo
— CBS Sports HQ (@CBSSportsHQ) May 4, 2020

Rest In Peace Don Shula. I have so many memories growing up of those Dolphin teams. You were a great example to all in South FLA and throughout the country. #class pic.twitter.com/vmi14PYjYq
— Jody Jackson (@Jody_Jackson) May 4, 2020

Today is a sad day. Coach Shula was the rare man who exemplified true greatness in every aspect of his life. He will be so missed by so many but his legacy of character and excellence will endure. All my best to Mary Anne and the Shula family. pic.twitter.com/PLoIhyPGrl
— Tom Garfinkel (@TomGarfinkel) May 4, 2020

Don Shula was a titan. Two-time Super Bowl champion. Four-time Coach of the Year. Most regular season wins (328) and total wins (347) in NFL history. The Perfect Season. And an absolute legend in South Florida. RIP.
— Adam Beasley (@AdamHBeasley) May 4, 2020

Rip, one of the greatest of all time..Don Shula ..he set the standard...will talk later today on FOX
— Jimmy Johnson (@JimmyJohnson) May 4, 2020

I began my career in the @NFL in the mid ‘80s - I note that to lend perspective to this about Don Shula: he interacted with me as he interacted with my male peers - my gender was no issue - my condolences to the Shula family and the @MiamiDolphins family. https://t.co/Sk8NUZpgqX
— Amy Trask (@AmyTrask) May 4, 2020