Titans Offensive Line Coach Bill Callahan has been named the recipient of the 2024 Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) Dr. Z Award, a prestigious honor recognizing the outstanding contributions of NFL assistant coaches. The award, which pays tribute to the legendary football writer Paul Zimmerman, was presented to Callahan by AP Pro Football Writer Teresa Walker on Thursday, during a media session following the Titans’ practice.
Bill Callahan’s extensive career in the NFL is a testament to his exceptional coaching prowess. With 22 seasons dedicated to coaching offensive lines and an additional seven years as an offensive coordinator, Callahan has been instrumental in developing some of the league’s most dominant offensive linemen. His coaching has led to 14 linemen earning a total of 35 Pro Bowl selections, a clear reflection of his ability to cultivate top-tier talent.
Most recently, Callahan served as the offensive line coach for the Cleveland Browns from 2020 to 2023, where he continued to showcase his expertise. His NFL coaching career has also included impactful stints with the Washington Commanders (2015-2019), Dallas Cowboys (2012-2014), New York Jets (2008-2011), and Oakland Raiders (1998-2003). During his time with the Raiders, he took on the role of head coach from 2002 to 2003, leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2003.
Callahan’s journey in football began with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he started his NFL coaching career from 1995 to 1997. Before making his mark in the NFL, Callahan contributed significantly at the collegiate level, including a head coaching position at Nebraska from 2004 to 2007. He also spent two years coaching high school football, underscoring his dedication to nurturing talent across all levels of the sport.
The Dr. Z Award, established in 2014, is named in honor of Paul Zimmerman, who covered the NFL for nearly three decades as Sports Illustrated’s lead pro football writer. Zimmerman’s 55-year career in journalism left an indelible mark on the sport, and the award bearing his name recognizes assistant coaches who have made a lasting impact on the NFL. This year, Callahan shares the award with Steve Spagnuolo, the Kansas City Chiefs’ Defensive Coordinator, further highlighting the caliber of coaches being honored.
Receiving the Dr. Z Award is a significant recognition of Bill Callahan’s contributions to football. As he continues to shape the Titans’ offensive line, his legacy as one of the NFL’s most respected and influential coaches continues to grow.
