Linebacker Mike Kolen, who played a key role in the Dolphins winning two consecutive Super Bowls, has passed away.
Auburn University, where Kolen attended, announced his death on April 3. Kolen was 76 years old.
The Dolphins selected Kolen in the 12th round of the 1970 draft, and he played as a regular starter until the 1975 season.
During this time, he contributed to the Dolphins’ perfect 1972 season and their subsequent Super Bowl victory in 1973.
Kolen made impactful interceptions in crucial games, including one against Terry Bradshaw in the AFC Championship Game and another against Johnny Unitas in the 1971 AFC title game.
He continued with the Dolphins until the 1977 season before retiring from professional football. Auburn honored Kolen’s legacy by naming an award for the season’s top tackler after him.
