From Humble Beginnings to NFL Glory
By Greg Fugitt
Chief Louisa Police Department
Super Bowl IX is set to be a dazzling spectacle of athleticism, strategy, and perseverance, but for one man in particular, it will symbolize the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Jason Michael, a Louisa native and former Lawrence County Bulldog quarterback, will be there, marking another chapter in his illustrious 22-year coaching career.
Jason Michael’s journey began in the small town of Louisa, Kentucky, where his talent and passion for football stood out early on. As the quarterback for the Lawrence County Bulldogs, he demonstrated leadership and skill, setting the stage for what would become a prolific coaching career.
After transferring from Army to Western Kentucky University, Michael found his stride as a two-time captain, leading the Hilltoppers to an NCAA I-AA title in 2002. This success, combined with his academic excellence as a civil engineering technology graduate, showcased his determination both on and off the field.
Michael’s coaching journey started in 2003 as a graduate assistant at the University of Tennessee. Over two decades, he has established himself as one of the NFL’s most respected position coaches. His resume is a testament to his skill in developing talent, particularly tight ends and quarterbacks.
Since joining the Eagles in 2021, Michael has been instrumental in the success of Dallas Goedert, one of the NFL’s most versatile tight ends. In 2023, Goedert thrived under Michael’s guidance, achieving a career-high 59 receptions for 592 yards and excelling in yards after the catch (5.4 per reception), ranking fifth at his position.
Michael’s influence isn’t limited to Philadelphia. His time with the Indianapolis Colts (2019-2020) saw the tight ends produce top-tier performances, while his stint with the Tennessee Titans was marked by his role in developing quarterback Marcus Mariota into a red-zone phenomenon.
As a tight ends coach for the San Diego Chargers (2011-2013), he mentored Antonio Gates, guiding him to over 190 receptions in three seasons. Across his coaching stops, including stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals, Michael has built a legacy of elevating the players he works with, turning potential into performance.
For Michael, coaching in Super Bowl IX represents more than professional success, it’s a personal milestone. A family man with a wife, Jamie, and two children, Wyatt and Charlie, Michael balances his professional demands with the grounding values instilled during his Kentucky upbringing following his father’s footsteps who was former Lawrence County head coach.
Jason Michael’s journey is an inspiring example of how dedication and vision can take one from the heart of Kentucky to the pinnacle of professional sports. As he prepares for Super Bowl IX, his hometown of Louisa and the entire Lawrence County community will undoubtedly be cheering him on.
Jason is the son of Eddie and Sue Michael of Louisa. Good Luck to Coach Michael and Eagles!!!