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Lawlor: Jim Johnson Was The Mastermind

The Eagles have had some great defensive coaches over the years. Buddy Ryan drafted and developed linebacker Seth Joyner, defensive tackle Jerome Brown, defensive end Clyde Simmons, linebacker Byron Evans, and cornerback Eric Allen. Bud Carson took that group of players to new heights in 1991 when Gang Green was No. 1 in run, pass, and overall defense. Marion Campbell helped the team get to the Super Bowl in 1980 and had the Eagles as the top-ranked defense in 1981. Ray Rhodes and Emmitt Thomas had top-five defenses in 1995 and '96.

As great as those coaches were, Jim Johnson is the most beloved defensive coach in Eagles history.