Did Andy Reid Play Football? Playing Career Revealed

By Emma Wilson · April 22, 2028

Yes, Andy Reid played college football as a backup quarterback at BYU but did not play professionally.

Andy Reid's Football Playing Career Overview

Andy Reid is widely recognized today as one of the most successful NFL head coaches, currently leading the Kansas City Chiefs to multiple Super Bowl victories. However, his journey began not on the sidelines, but on the field—as a collegiate football player.

College Football Experience

Reid played for Brigham Young University (BYU) from 1978 to 1981 under legendary coach LaVell Edwards. Though he never started a game, he served as a backup quarterback and long snapper. His time at BYU helped shape his deep understanding of offensive systems and team dynamics.

Position: Quarterback, Long Snapper
School: Brigham Young University (BYU)
Years Active: 1978–1981
Role: Backup QB, Team Captain (1981)
Notable Coach: LaVell Edwards

Transition from Player to Coach

Despite not having a standout playing career, Reid quickly transitioned into coaching after graduation. His football IQ and leadership skills were evident early on.

Early Coaching Roles

Reid began as a graduate assistant at BYU in 1982, then moved to San Francisco State, Utah State, and eventually the NFL with the Green Bay Packers in 1992 under Mike Holmgren. His rise through the ranks was steady and strategic.

Year	Team	Role	Level
1978–1981	BYU Cougars	Player (QB, LS)	College
1982	BYU Cougars	Graduate Assistant	College
1983–1985	San Francisco State	Offensive Line Coach	College
1986–1988	Utah State	Tight Ends/Offensive Line	College
1989–1991	Florida State	Offensive Line Coach	College
1992–1998	Green Bay Packers	Assistant Offensive Line	NFL
1999–2012	Philadelphia Eagles	Head Coach	NFL
2013–Present	Kansas City Chiefs	Head Coach	NFL

Table data source:1, 2

The table illustrates Reid’s steady progression from player to one of the NFL’s longest-tenured head coaches. His early roles focused heavily on the offensive line, which became a hallmark of his coaching philosophy—emphasizing protection and run-blocking efficiency.

Although he didn’t play professionally, his experience as a player provided foundational knowledge that informed his coaching style, particularly in game management and quarterback development.

Frequently Asked Questions About Andy Reid

Did Andy Reid ever play in the NFL?

No, Andy Reid did not play in the NFL. He played college football at BYU as a backup quarterback and long snapper but was never drafted or signed by an NFL team.

What position did Andy Reid play in college?

At BYU, Andy Reid played as a quarterback and long snapper. He was primarily a backup and served as a team captain in his senior year.

Where did Andy Reid go to college?

Andy Reid attended Brigham Young University (BYU), where he played football from 1978 to 1981 and later began his coaching career as a graduate assistant.

How did Andy Reid become a coach without a pro playing career?

Reid leveraged his football intelligence, leadership, and mentorship under LaVell Edwards at BYU to enter coaching. His strategic mind and work ethic allowed him to rise through college and NFL ranks despite lacking professional playing experience.

Has Andy Reid won a Super Bowl as a player?

No, Andy Reid never played professionally, so he did not win a Super Bowl as a player. However, he has won multiple Super Bowls as a head coach with the Kansas City Chiefs, including victories in Super Bowl LIV, LVII, and LVIII.