Terrell Owens Honors High School Coach Who Shaped His NFL Journey
“Instead of me having a breakdown, I’m focusing on me having a breakthrough.” That quote captures the mindset that defined Terrell Owens’ career. The Pro Football Hall of Famer, a six-time Pro Bowler and five-time first-team All-Pro, carved out a legendary path in the NFL. But as Owens recently revealed, much of that success traces back to one man: his high school receivers coach.
Owens, who was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 1996 from the relatively unknown University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, always had something to prove. Teaming up with Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, he led the 49ers in receptions five times during his eight-year stint in San Francisco. Even after leaving the franchise in 2003, he still ranks second all-time in receptions (592), yards (8,572), and touchdowns (81) in team history.
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Despite never winning a Super Bowl, Owens’ impact on the game is undeniable. And in his eyes, the foundation was laid in Alexander City, Alabama, under Coach Powell at Benjamin Russell High School. On Monday, Owens shared heartbreaking news—Coach Powell had passed away.
In a deeply personal Instagram tribute, Owens recounted his final moments with the coach. “On Thursday morning, May 15th around 9:30am PST. I was able to say goodbye to my high school receivers coach, Coach Powell,” he wrote. Thanks to Powell’s granddaughter, Caity, Owens was able to speak with him one last time. “Although he didn’t respond as I spoke to him. I knew he could hear me as I shared with him that I loved him, I’m gonna miss him.”
The loss resonated across the NFL community. Cowboys Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman was among those who acknowledged the post, highlighting the widespread respect Coach Powell commanded through Owens’ memories.
In his tribute, Owens reflected on one moment that forever changed his career: Coach Powell’s message during one of his first varsity practices. “The most important thing about being one of ‘his receivers’ was to be able to block first, then be able to catch the football second,” Owens recalled. That lesson of selflessness and fundamentals stuck with Owens throughout high school, college, and into his 16-year NFL career, where he recorded 60+ receptions in 13 seasons.
Owens’ journey from a small town in Alabama to the heights of the NFL is a testament to the power of mentorship. Coach Powell’s teachings not only molded a wide receiver—they shaped a legend.
Rest in peace, Coach Powell.