Did Nick Sirianni Play Football? College Career Revealed

By Sarah Miller · December 18, 2038

Yes, Nick Sirianni played college football as a wide receiver at Mount Union from 1999 to 2003, where he won three NCAA Division III national championships. He did not play professionally.

Who Is Nick Sirianni?

Nick Sirianni is the current head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles in the National Football League (NFL). He has gained widespread recognition for his leadership, particularly during the Eagles' Super Bowl LVII appearance in 2023. Before becoming a head coach, Sirianni built a strong reputation as an offensive coordinator with the Indianapolis Colts. His coaching philosophy emphasizes player development, efficient offensive schemes, and team culture.

Nick Sirianni's College Football Career

Sirianni played quarterback and wide receiver at the University of Mount Union, a powerhouse in NCAA Division III football. Though not a star player, he contributed significantly to one of the most dominant programs in small-college football history.

Key Facts About His Playing Career

Played from 1999 to 2003 at Mount Union
Position: Quarterback (early) and Wide Receiver (later)
Member of three national championship teams (1999, 2000, 2002)
Team captain during his senior year
Graduated with a degree in education

Did Nick Sirianni Play in the NFL?

No, Nick Sirianni did not play professional football. After graduating from Mount Union, he transitioned directly into coaching. His deep understanding of offensive systems and player communication helped him climb the coaching ranks quickly, despite lacking professional playing experience.

From Player to Coach: Sirianni's Career Path

Sirianni began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2004. From there, he steadily advanced through various college and NFL roles:

2006–2008: Running backs coach at Indiana University of PA
2009–2011: Wide receivers coach at Eastern Illinois University
2012–2015: Joined the Indianapolis Colts as offensive quality control coach
2016–2017: Tight ends coach for the Colts
2018–2020: Promoted to offensive coordinator
2021–present: Head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles

Mount Union Purple Raiders: A Football Powerhouse

The University of Mount Union competes in NCAA Division III and has one of the most successful football programs in collegiate history. Playing there gave Sirianni firsthand experience in a high-winning culture, which has influenced his coaching style.

Year	Record	Championship Result	Head Coach
1999	14–1	Won National Championship	Larry Kehres
2000	14–1	Won National Championship	Larry Kehres
2001	11–2	Lost in Semifinals	Larry Kehres
2002	14–1	Won National Championship	Larry Kehres
2003	13–1	Lost in Championship Game	Larry Kehres

Table data source:Mount Union Athletics, NCAA

The table shows Mount Union's dominance during Sirianni’s tenure. The team reached the national title game in four of his five seasons, winning three championships. This environment instilled a culture of excellence that Sirianni later brought to the NFL.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nick Sirianni's Football Career

Did Nick Sirianni ever play in the NFL?

No, Nick Sirianni never played in the NFL. He played college football at the NCAA Division III level and transitioned directly into coaching after graduation.

What position did Nick Sirianni play in college?

Nick Sirianni played quarterback early in his college career and later switched to wide receiver at the University of Mount Union.

Where did Nick Sirianni go to college?

Nick Sirianni attended the University of Mount Union in Alliance, Ohio, where he played football and graduated in 2004.

How many national championships did Nick Sirianni win in college?

Nick Sirianni won three NCAA Division III national championships as a player at Mount Union in 1999, 2000, and 2002.

When did Nick Sirianni become head coach of the Eagles?

Nick Sirianni was hired as head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles in January 2021 ahead of the 2021 NFL season.

Conclusion

While Nick Sirianni did not have a professional playing career, his experience as a championship-winning player at Mount Union provided a foundation for his success as a coach. His deep knowledge of offensive football, leadership skills, and ability to develop players have made him one of the NFL’s most promising young head coaches. His journey proves that impactful coaching careers can emerge from non-elite playing backgrounds.