Legendary NFL coach retires at age 87
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 7:15 pm
NFL Coaching Legend Tom Moore Retires After Nearly Five Decades
Tom Moore, a highly respected figure in NFL coaching circles, is retiring after an impressive 46 seasons in the league. The 87-year-old, who most recently served as a senior offensive consultant for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is ending a career that began in 1977 as a wide receivers coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Moore's impact on the game is undeniable, with a total of 62 years of coaching experience, including time in college programs. He is perhaps best known for his pivotal role as the offensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, a position he held from 1998 to 2010. This tenure coincided with the arrival of quarterback Peyton Manning, drafted first overall by the Colts in 1998.
During their time together, Moore and Manning formed a formidable partnership, leading the Colts to a Super Bowl victory in 2007. The duo's offensive prowess resulted in numerous NFL records, including Manning's impressive 49 touchdown passes in 2004, a record that stood until 2007. Moore's influence extended beyond the Colts, as he later consulted for other teams. He also secured two championships with the Steelers and another with the Buccaneers in 2020.
Moore had considered retirement after the 2008 season, but ultimately remained with the Colts. His decision to retire now marks the end of an era for a coach who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
BNN's Perspective: Tom Moore's career is a testament to the longevity and impact of dedicated coaching. His success, particularly with Peyton Manning, highlights the importance of strong player-coach relationships and offensive innovation. While the game continues to evolve, Moore's contributions will undoubtedly be remembered as a cornerstone of modern NFL history.
Keywords: Tom Moore, NFL, retirement, coach, offensive coordinator, Indianapolis Colts, Peyton Manning, Super Bowl, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Pittsburgh Steelers, coaching career, football