Paul Wiggin Passes Away at 91
IRVING, Texas — Paul Wiggin, a notable figure in college and professional football, has passed away at the age of 91. He was best known for his time at Stanford University and with the Cleveland Browns.
The announcements regarding Wiggin’s death came from the Browns, Minnesota Vikings, and the National Football Foundation. He was recognized as one of the oldest living NFF Hall of Famers.
Wiggin was present on the Stanford sideline during the infamous “The Play” in 1982 when the University of California scored a dramatic last-minute touchdown to win 25-20. Many remember this game as one of the greatest endings in college football history, especially with the Stanford band inadvertently entering the field early.
Reflecting on that game, Wiggin remarked, “I think it’s a tragedy that the Cal-Stanford game ended the way it did. In our hearts and minds, we won the game. We know we won the game.”
He was an impressive player at Stanford from 1954 to 1956, receiving All-American honors as a defensive tackle twice and being voted the school’s Defensive Player of the Century.
Archie Manning, president of the NFF, commented on Wiggin’s legacy, saying, “Paul Wiggin embodies everything the NFF College Football Hall of Fame wants to celebrate, especially excellence on the field, leadership on the sideline, and a lifelong commitment to the game. His impact on college football transcended generations and left a lasting legacy. We are saddened to learn of his passing.”
Wiggin was drafted by the Browns in the fourth round of 1957 and played for 11 seasons without missing a game, earning two Pro Bowl selections along the way. He played a pivotal role in helping the Browns secure the NFL title in 1964.
After his playing career, Wiggin served as an assistant coach with the San Francisco 49ers from 1968 to 1974 before becoming head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs in 1975. He stepped into the role following Hank Stram’s departure during the 1977 season.
He later spent two years as the defensive coordinator in New Orleans and returned to Stanford as head coach in 1980.
Wiggin also worked with the Vikings from 1985 to 1991, initially as their defensive line coach before taking on various roles within the organization, contributing to nearly 40 years of service.
