Former Indianapolis Colts offensive line coach Howard Mudd died at the age of 78 on Wednesday after battling recovery from a motorcycle accident two weeks ago.
Mudd has been in the ICU in Seattle since initially suffering pelvis and spine injuries during the motorcycle accident.
Rest in peace, Howard Mudd. Howard was a GREAT player during a shortened career and then became one of the game's all-time greatest offensive line coaches. He contributed to many different teams over 47 years in our league—but he will always be a Colt. #LoveYouHoward
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) August 12, 2020
This is a statement from Mudd’s family following the news of his death:
We want to share that yesterday we (as a family) made the decision to focus care on providing Howard the most comfort. Right after the accident he fought so hard against all odds to communicate to us that he loves us and that he knows we love him. Yesterday, it became clear that he was ready and that we needed to surround him with love and fight for his right to comfort and peace.
This morning he was surrounded in the room by his sons (Darren and Adam) who held his arms and prayed over him as he passed away.
Howard deeply loved and enjoyed his many friends and family. Please honor Howard today and every day by sharing a belly laugh with a loved one, or telling a stupid joke, or calling up a friend to tell them you are thinking of them.
Please know that we appreciate all the support & love & prayers for our family. He was loved by so many. We are missing a link in our family & at this time trying to support one another.
No funeral planned. However, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or Howard’s favorite: Indianapolis Great Pyrenees Rescue, Indianapolis, In.We love you all.
Mudd family
Mudd was one of the best offensive line coaches in the history of the NFL. He held that role with the Colts from 1998-2009 and returned for a short stint during the 2019 season.
Mudd coached for eight NFL teams from 1974-2012 and is best known for crafting the elite offensive line that protected Peyton Manning. He played in 93 career games while earning one All-Pro nod in 1968.