Bill Kollar: the Man, the Myth, the Legend
Bill Kollar attended Montana State University, where he earned his spot as a three-time First-Team All-Big Sky Conference selection and was a two-time Little All-American, along with Big Sky Player of the Year as a junior. In the 1974 Senior Bowl, Bill earned MVP honors; he was inducted into the Senior Bowl Hall of Fame in 2014, and his jersey, #77, remains retired with Montana State. As a first-round pick for the NFL, Bill was drafted by the Bengals where he played from 1974-76, after which he played for the Buccaneers from 1977-1981. Bill transitioned into coaching for Illinois and Purdue.
Bill’s NFL coaching career began in 1990, where he joined the Atlanta Falcons staff, followed by five seasons with St. Louis, where his defensive line led to the Rams’ 2001 Super Bowl run.
In 2014, Kollar joined the Denver Broncos as a defensive line coach after spending six years coaching with the Texans, and, before that, three years with Buffalo. Bill was inducted into the National Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Derek Wolfe also briefly mentions his early career, being drafted by the Broncos and playing his first few seasons. Watching JJ Watt under Kollar’s coaching, Derek realized, “If he could get that guy to that, to that level, what can he do?; You know, he could do something with me.”
Keep ‘Em Fresh: Coaching Philosophy and Player Development
Kollar emphasizes his coaching philosophy of pushing players to their full potential, even if it meant getting on their case. He believed in rotating players to keep them fresh and motivated.
Derek heard stories about how hard Kollar was on his players, pushing them to their best and not always being nice about it.
“I always respected that about you is that you didn’t like to treat anybody different.”
Wolfe credits Kollar with helping him reach another level in his game, teaching him techniques like the chop move and setting up stunts. They discuss how Kollar’s tough-love approach helped players improve and ultimately get paid.
“And so I get a call from the PR Department…”
At about minute 26, Kollar shares a humorous story about wrestling a bear for $50 early in his career and discusses the difference in salaries from Kollar’s time to Wolfe’s.
They also reminisce about coaching and playing with notable players like DeMarcus Ware, Von Miller, J.J. Watt, and others.
Wolfe talks about his golf experience with Donald Trump, John Daly, and Kid Rock, highlighting Trump’s down-to-earth personality and golfing skills.
Wolfe’s epic mountain lion takedown
After retiring from the NFL due to injury, Wolfe has transitioned into hunting and advocacy for the hunting community. He discusses the challenges of balancing hunting with his playing career and his newfound passion for bow hunting.
At about the one hour mark, Wolfe talks about being embroiled in a controversy surrounding the killing of a mountain lion while hunting and the efforts to ban certain hunting practices in Colorado, emphasizing the importance of wildlife management and conservation.
Analysis of the 2023 Denver Broncos
Kollar and Wolfe analyze the Denver Broncos’ current state, particularly the team’s recent performance, roster moves, and the acquisition of Russell Wilson.
The discussion turns to the Broncos’ acquisition of Russell Wilson, the impact of his arrival, the team’s defensive personnel, and the potential for a successful season. Kollar also shares insights into the team’s decision-making process, including ownership involvement in major trades and draft picks.
How did vaccine mandates affect the game?
Wolfe opens up about his experience with COVID-19 vaccine mandates during his final season with the Baltimore Ravens. He explains his decision not to take the vaccine and the challenges he faced, including segregation from the team and difficulties with rehabilitation. Kollar expresses sympathy for players like Kareem Jackson, who faced suspensions and fines due to the league’s strict policies.
Life after retirement for Bill Kollar
Kollar shares his decision to retire after 34 years of coaching in the NFL, citing the long hours and desire for a change. He discusses his plans for retirement, including golfing, hunting, and spending more time with family. Wolfe also talks about his transition into retirement, balancing his hunting pursuits with being a father and husband.
