Marvin Lewis

“People also often think there’s some kind of magical shortcut to success. But, of course, there is no substitute for hard work, commitment, and repetition. Another lesson is to venture out and not be afraid to fail, while learning how to compete in whatever it is that you are doing.”

Biography

Marvin Lewis (1958), a three-time All-Big Sky Conference linebacker with Idaho State University, was never drafted into the NFL. His fame came instead as a result of his outstanding coaching skills.

Lewis began his coaching career with Idaho State as an assistant before becoming linebacker coach from 1981-1984. He coached Long Beach State (1985-86); the University of New Mexico (1987-89); and outside linebackers at the University of Pittsburgh from 1990-91.

Lewis served internships with the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers before joining for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1992-1995 and coaching four Pro Bowl linebackers.

From 1996-2001, Lewis coached the Baltimore Ravens, winning the Super Bowl in 2000. After a brief stint with the Washington Redskins, he became coach to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2003. The team was unbeaten in his first two seasons as coach.

Career Highlights

Links

Marvin Lewis Community Fund aimed at empowering, educating and inspiring individuals in the Greater Cincinnati region