Mike Kolen was a legendary member of the Miami Dolphins Super Bowl defenses of the 1970s. He joined the team as a 12th-round draft pick out of Auburn and quickly became a starter with his physical playing style earning him the nickname “Captain Crunch”. Kolen’s impact extended beyond his playing career, as evidenced by his induction into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 1985. He was also the first recipient of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes College Athlete of the Year Award in 1970 and continued to be involved with the organization throughout his life. Despite battling injuries towards the end of his career, Kolen remained loyal to the Dolphins and retired after the 1977 season, never playing for another team. The Dolphins’ success in the 1970s was largely due to a strong draft class in 1970, which produced key players like Kolen, Jake Scott, Tim Foley, and Jim Mandich. They also struck gold with draft steals like Vern Den Herder, who became a defensive stalwart after being selected in the 10th round. Kolen’s contributions to those Dolphins teams will forever be remembered as part of their championship legacy.
From ‘Captain Crunch’ to the Hall of Fame: The Legacy of Mike Kolen on the Miami Dolphins
