Broncos’ ‘Orange Crush’ DC Joe Collier dies at 91

(Photo credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports)

Joe Collier, the standout defensive coordinator of Denver’s famed “Orange Crush” defense, announced Monday night at his home in Littleton, Colorado, that the Broncos have done so. He was 91.

Collier spent 20 seasons on the Broncos’ defensive staff from 1969 to 1988, the last 17 as defensive coordinator.

“Joe Collier is one of the most impactful coaches in Denver Broncos history and is considered one of the greatest defensive coordinators of all time,” the Broncos said in a statement. “He was an innovator in the NFL with his 3-4 defense and helped the Broncos to three Super Bowl appearances during a storied career with our franchise that spanned more than two decades.

“Collier was intelligent, modest and soft-spoken, providing steady leadership to five different head coaches as the Broncos emerged as perennial contenders in the 1970s and 1980s. His profound influence on countless Denver players and coaches included twelve Broncos Ring of Famers, eleven Pro Bowl selections and 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Randy Gradishar.”

The Broncos made Super Bowl appearances following the 1977, 1986 and 1987 seasons with Collier leading the defense. However, they went 0-3 in those games and lost by an average of 22.7 points.

Collier also was head coach of the Buffalo Bills from 1966-68 and went 13-16-1. He was fired in 1968 after an 0-2 start.

Collier also served as defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots in 1991-92 following his stint with the Broncos.

Collier was an All-America receiver at Northwestern in 1952 before being selected in the 22nd round by the New York Giants in the 1954 NFL Draft. He did not play professional football.

–Field-level media