Former coach and executive with over two decades of NFL experience Ted Cottrell joins the United Football League as Head Coach of the New York franchise.  Cottrell led the defense for several successful teams including the San Diego Chargers, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings. 

As the defensive coordinator for the Chargers during the 2007 season, Cottrell’s squad led the NFL in takeaways (48), interceptions (30) and passing rating defense (70.0) – the first time a Chargers team ever led in these categories. Prior to San Diego, Cottrell spent two seasons in the same position for the Minnesota Vikings. Under Cottrell’s tutelage, the Vikings finished fifth in the NFL in takeaways and earned a postseason berth. From 2001-2004, Cottrell served as the New York Jets assistant head coach and defensive coordinator.

Considered an innovator in the 3-4 defense, Cottrell was an assistant coach for the Buffalo Bills from 1995-2000, the last three seasons as defensive coordinator. From 1998 through 2000, the Bills were one of the top six teams in the NFL in total defense and in 1999 led the league in total defense. Cottrell’s NFL coaching career was launched in 1981 when he was hired by Marv Levy as linebackers coach for the Kansas City Chiefs. Prior to the pros, Cottrell coached at Rutgers University.

Cottrell starred at Delaware Valley College from 1965 to 1968. He was selected during the seventh round of the 1969 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons and played linebacker for two seasons. Cottrell’s playing days ended after two seasons with the Canadian Football League’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers.