Being raised by NYC first responders gave Bills assistant coach Dean Marlowe a unique 9/11 perspective: 'It affected all of us that day'
Something will trigger a memory of the trauma, but Marlowe said the more time passes, the more it becomes a badge of honor for him and his family.
Dean Marlowe, a Buffalo Bills assistant coach, experienced a unique perspective on 9/11 due to his upbringing by first responders. As a 9-year-old, Marlowe's stepfather, Mike Neil, a police sergeant, unexpectedly picked him up from school on the morning of 9/11, informing him of the tragic events in New York City. Both Marlowe's parents and several family members were police officers and firefighters at the time, with many still active in their careers.
Marlowe's family faced the grim reality of the devastation firsthand, helping to clean up bodies and recover body parts for several days. Despite the tragedy, Marlowe believes the experience forged a strong bond within the family, bringing them together in unity and resilience. Marlowe's career in the NFL eventually took him to Buffalo, where he spent four seasons and one year on the Bills' practice squad, earning a reputation as a dedicated player and fan favorite.
In 2024, Marlowe retired from the NFL to pursue a coaching career, inspired by his desire to help the next generation of football players. His coaching debut with the Bills comes on Sunday, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of 9/11, adding a poignant layer to his new role.
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