Mike Nolan has replaced Jeff Fisher as the head coach of the Michigan Panthers, the USFL announced Friday.
Nolan, 63, served as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2005-08 among numerous other coaching positions, including as defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. He will take the helm in place of Fisher, who said he was stepping down for personal reasons.
“We are honored to welcome Mike Nolan to the USFL family as the new head coach of the Michigan Panthers,” Executive Vice President of Football Operations Daryl Johnston said in a press release.
“When Coach Fisher informed us that he needed to step down, we immediately started the challenging process to find another experienced, charismatic leader to replace him while at the same time, create excitement for Michigan Panthers players and fans as we open our Detroit Hub to start USFL Year Two. Mike was the perfect fit for that role. He has coached for more than 30 years in the NFL. His extensive football knowledge and coaching experience will maximize his players’ talents and help them succeed at the professional level. We couldn’t have found a better fit for the Michigan Panthers and the USFL.”
Nolan said in a release that he’s excited for the opportunity.
“Playing great football and competing at a high level is what the Panthers are going to be about,” he said. “It will take a loud and rabid fan base to help us get there. I’ve experienced the passionate fans of Michigan and Detroit while coaching against the Lions, and I was always impressed. Our goal with the Panthers is to play with energy and pride for the entire state we represent. I want our fans to be proud to root for the Panthers.”
Fisher, 64, spent 30 years on NFL sidelines. He was named head coach of the Houston Oilers in the midst of the 1994 season and stayed with the franchise through its transition to the Tennessee Titans, who bought out his contract in 2010.
Fisher went on to coach the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams from 2012-16. He guided the Panthers to a 2-8 record this past season.
“I have made the tough decision to step away from coaching in the USFL to spend more time with my family, including our five grand-babies, and enjoying my semi-retirement to the fullest,” Fisher said.
–Field Level Media