## Former NFL Assistant Coaches Dick Hoak, Elijah Pitts, Jim McNally to Receive Awards of Excellence
Three veteran NFL assistant coaches who have dedicated decades to the sport will be honored with the prestigious Awards of Excellence by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Dick Hoak, Elijah Pitts, and Jim McNally will receive the awards at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony on August 6th in Canton, Ohio.
### Dick Hoak
Dick Hoak, a long-time assistant coach with the Denver Broncos, served the organization for 33 seasons. His contributions to the team’s success were instrumental in the Broncos’ rise to prominence, culminating in two Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999.
Hoak’s coaching philosophy emphasized discipline, accountability, and a strong work ethic. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to develop young players into NFL-caliber starters. Under his tutelage, numerous Broncos players, including All-Pro linebacker Karl Mecklenburg, flourished and became key contributors to the team’s success.
### Elijah Pitts
Elijah Pitts spent 24 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the New York Giants and the Oakland Raiders. As the Giants’ defensive coordinator from 1983 to 1993, Pitts played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive success during that era. He helped guide the Giants to two Super Bowl victories in 1986 and 1990, solidifying their status as one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses.
Pitts’ coaching style was characterized by innovation and adaptability. He was known for his ability to adjust his schemes to counter opposing offenses and maximize the talents of his players. Under his leadership, the Giants’ defense consistently ranked among the league’s best, known for its relentless pass rush and opportunistic turnovers.
### Jim McNally
Jim McNally’s NFL career spanned over three decades, including stints with the Buffalo Bills, the San Diego Chargers, and the Seattle Seahawks. As the Bills’ special teams coordinator from 1994 to 2012, McNally’s units played a significant role in the team’s resurgence during that period.
McNally’s expertise in special teams strategy and execution was highly regarded throughout the league. His special teams units consistently ranked among the most productive and efficient, contributing to the Bills’ success in key games and postseason appearances. He was known for his innovative approach to punt and kickoff coverage, creating schemes that gave his players an advantage on the field.
## Recognition and Legacy
The Awards of Excellence recognize the invaluable contributions of assistant coaches to the NFL and the game of football. Dick Hoak, Elijah Pitts, and Jim McNally have dedicated their lives to the sport, leaving an enduring mark on their respective teams and the league as a whole.
Their coaching accomplishments have helped shape the NFL’s landscape, developing young players into stars, and contributing to the overall success of their teams. Their induction into the Awards of Excellence program is a testament to their dedication, expertise, and the lasting impact they have made on the game.