Challenges in the Life of Bill Parcells in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Bill Parcells's life and career.

Bill Parcells, nicknamed "the Big Tuna," is a highly successful former NFL head coach, known for his ability to turn struggling franchises into playoff contenders. He coached for 19 seasons, most notably leading the New York Giants to two Super Bowl victories (1983-1990). Parcells holds the distinction of being the only NFL coach to guide four different teams (Giants, Patriots, Jets, Cowboys) to the playoffs, and three to a conference championship game, solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in professional football.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1979: Defensive Coordinator of the Giants

In 1979, Bill Parcells accepted an offer to become the defensive coordinator of the New York Giants, but resigned when his family wanted to stay in Colorado. He then took a job with a land development company in Colorado and became a season ticket holder with the Denver Broncos, which he described as a miserable year.

1981: Simms injury

In 1981, Phil Simms missed the latter part of the season due to injury.

1982: Simms misses season

Phil Simms missed the entire 1982 season due to injury.

1983: First Year as Giants Head Coach

In 1983, during his first year as head coach, Bill Parcells benched Phil Simms in favor of Scott Brunner, later switching back to Simms due to Brunner's struggles. The Giants surreptitiously offered Parcells' job to Howard Schnellenberger, but he declined, and the Giants had a disastrous 3–12–1 season.

1987: Losing Season

In 1987, Bill Parcells and the Giants had a losing season, going 6-9 during the strike year.

1990: Second Super Bowl Victory

In 1990, Bill Parcells led the Giants to their second Super Bowl victory, Super Bowl XXV, defeating the Buffalo Bills 20-19. He retired from football after this Super Bowl due to health problems.

1992: Declined Packers Head Coach Job

In 1992, Bill Parcells declined an offer to become the head coach of the Green Bay Packers due to needing open heart surgery. Mike Holmgren got the job instead.

1992: Opted Not to Coach Buccaneers

In 1992, Bill Parcells initially agreed to become the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but ultimately decided against it, leading to disappointment from the team's owner.

1994: Kraft Buys the Team

Robert Kraft bought the New England Patriots in early 1994, after Bill Parcells' first year as head coach. This led to disagreements regarding player personnel decisions.

1996: Draft Disagreement

During the 1996 draft, Bill Parcells wanted to draft Tony Brackens but was vetoed by Robert Kraft, leading to the selection of Terry Glenn. This fueled disagreements regarding player personnel decisions.

1996: Division Title

In 1996, Bill Parcells guided the Patriots to their first division title in 11 years and a trip to Super Bowl XXXI, where they lost to the Green Bay Packers.

1998: AFC Championship Game Loss

In 1998, Bill Parcells led the Jets to a franchise-best 12–4 record and the AFC Championship game, where they lost to the Denver Broncos. It was the only time Parcells lost a conference championship game.

2004: Turbulent 2004 Season

The 2004 season was tumultuous, beginning with starting quarterback Quincy Carter being terminated for alleged drug use. Veteran Vinny Testaverde was brought in but proved ineffective. The Cowboys started strong but finished the 2004 season with a 6–10 record due to injuries and other issues.

2006: 2006 Season with the Cowboys

In 2006, the Cowboys signed Terrell Owens and released Keyshawn Johnson. Drew Bledsoe was replaced with Tony Romo as quarterback. The Cowboys finished the 2006 season 9–7, losing to the Eagles and Lions, and then losing to the Seahawks in the playoffs due to a botched field goal.