Coaching legend steps back: Wade Phillips takes leave from San Antonio Brahmas

Three-time NFL head coach Wade Phillips has announced a leave of absence from his role as head coach of the United Football League’s (UFL) San Antonio Brahmas. The UFL confirmed the move on Wednesday, citing “personal reasons” for Phillips’ temporary departure. Offensive coordinator Payton Pardee will assume interim head coaching duties for the remainder of the 2025 season.

UFL Praises Phillips’ Impact
In a joint statement, UFL president Russ Brandon and executive Daryl Johnston lauded Phillips’ contributions: “His leadership and credibility have been instrumental in shaping the UFL’s growth. A coaching legend with over 50 years of dedication, Wade has earned universal respect across football.” The league expressed support for Phillips’ potential return, stating, “The entire UFL Family will cheer him on when he’s ready.”

From Houston to Championships
Phillips, 76, most recently led the Brahmas to the 2024 UFL championship after coaching the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks in 2023. His career began in 1969 as a University of Houston graduate assistant, later joining his father, Bum Phillips, on the Houston Oilers’ staff in 1976. He served as defensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints (1981–1985) and held NFL head coaching roles with the Broncos, Bills, Cowboys, Saints (interim), and Falcons (interim). After retiring from the NFL in 2019 as the Rams’ defensive coordinator, Phillips returned to football with the XFL in 2023.

Legacy and Next Steps
With a career spanning six decades, Phillips’ absence leaves a temporary void in the UFL. As interim coach Pardee steps in, the league and fans await updates on Phillips’ future while celebrating his enduring legacy.