Kippy Brown, renowned for being the first wide receivers coach for the Houston Texans, has passed away at the age of 71. His death marks the loss of a significant figure in the NFL, where he dedicated over two decades as an assistant coach. Brown's contributions to the Texans began when he was hired by head coach Dom Capers in February 2002, just months before the franchise played its inaugural game.
During his four-year tenure with the Texans, Brown made a profound impact on the team's receiving corps, particularly on Hall of Fame wide receiver Andre Johnson. Johnson often credited Brown for his development into a professional player, stating, "We talked a lot. He always told me, 'Just keep working, things aren't going to be the way they were in college.'" This mentorship was pivotal in shaping Johnson's career, which would see him become one of the most celebrated receivers in NFL history.
Brown's journey in the NFL began in 1990 when he took on the role of running backs coach for the New York Jets. Over the years, he expanded his coaching repertoire, serving as an assistant for several teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and Seattle Seahawks. Notably, he was the offensive coordinator for the Dolphins under Jimmy Johnson and held the position of associate head coach for the Lions during their infamous 0-16 season in 2008.
In 2014, Brown celebrated a career highlight when he earned a Super Bowl ring as the receivers coach for the Seahawks, a testament to his coaching acumen and ability to develop talent. He retired from coaching the following year, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and skill development.
In addition to his NFL coaching career, Brown was also the head coach of the Memphis Maniax in the XFL during its brief existence in 2001. His roots in football trace back to his playing days, where he made history as the first Black quarterback at Memphis State University, leading the team from 1974 to 1977.
Brown's influence extended beyond the NFL, as he had multiple coaching stints at the University of Tennessee. He first made a name for himself there as receivers coach under Johnny Majors from 1983 to 1989, a period during which the program earned the nickname "Wide Receiver U" due to the talent it produced, including NFL stars like Alvin Harper and Carl Pickens. He returned to Tennessee under Phil Fulmer and later under Lane Kiffin, briefly serving as interim head coach when Kiffin departed for USC.
The legacy of Kippy Brown is one of dedication, mentorship, and a profound influence on the game of football. His contributions to the Texans and the broader football community will be remembered by players and coaches alike.
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