Kevin Mawae: The Unyielding Anchor of the Gridiron
A comprehensive examination of a Hall of Fame Center's career, leadership, and enduring impact on the sport of American football.
Career Highlights ๐ View Accolades ๐Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
๐ฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ฎ
Career Overview
Hall of Fame Lineman
Kevin James Mawae, born January 23, 1971, is celebrated as an American former professional football player renowned for his exceptional career as a center and guard in the National Football League (NFL). Spanning 16 seasons, Mawae established himself as a cornerstone of offensive lines for three prominent teams: the Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets, and Tennessee Titans.
Unparalleled Recognition
Mawae's consistent excellence earned him eight selections to the Pro Bowl and seven First-team All-Pro honors, underscoring his dominance at the center position. His contributions were further recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019, cementing his legacy as one of the game's all-time greats.
Leadership Beyond the Field
Beyond his playing prowess, Mawae demonstrated significant leadership as the President of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) from 2008 to 2012. During his tenure, he navigated critical issues, including the passing of Gene Upshaw and the 2011 NFL lockout, advocating for player rights and collective bargaining.
Formative Years
A Military Upbringing
Born in Savannah, Georgia, Mawae's early life was shaped by his father's military service. This nomadic upbringing led his family through postings at Fort Riley, Kansas, and Hanau, Germany, before settling near Leesville, Louisiana. This diverse experience instilled a unique perspective and resilience from a young age.
High School Acumen
During his time at Leesville High School, Mawae excelled not only as an all-state football selection but also garnered academic honors. This early display of dedication and talent foreshadowed his future success in both athletic and leadership capacities.
LSU Tigers Tenure
Versatility and All-SEC Honors
Mawae attended Louisiana State University, playing for the Tigers from 1989 to 1993. His collegiate career was marked by remarkable versatility, as he played multiple positions including left tackle, center, and left guard. He earned Freshman All-SEC honors in 1990 and progressed to become a first-team All-SEC selection by his sophomore year.
All-American Recognition
As a junior, Mawae was recognized as a second-team All-SEC performer and received third-team All-American accolades, showcasing his national prominence. His senior season saw him solidify his position at center, anchoring the offensive line. His enduring connection to LSU was honored with his induction into the LSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.
Professional Gridiron Dominance
Seattle Seahawks (1994-1997)
Selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round (36th overall) of the 1994 NFL Draft, Mawae quickly made an impact. He started 11 of 14 games at right guard as a rookie and earned All-Rookie honors. By 1996, he transitioned to center, a position he would master for the remainder of his illustrious career.
New York Jets (1998-2005)
Joining the New York Jets in 1998, Mawae became a linchpin of their offensive line. The team's offense consistently ranked among the league's best in yardage and time of possession during his tenure. He achieved six consecutive Pro Bowl selections (1999-2004) and five First-team All-Pro nods, demonstrating sustained elite performance. Despite a significant triceps injury in 2005, his streak of 124 consecutive starts prior to that point highlighted his durability and commitment.
Tennessee Titans (2006-2009)
Mawae concluded his playing career with the Tennessee Titans, signing in 2006. He continued to be a vital force, contributing to a strong rushing attack and an offensive line that allowed minimal sacks. Voted team captain in 2007, he played his final Pro Bowl season in 2009, retiring shortly thereafter, leaving an indelible mark on the league.
NFLPA Leadership
President of the Players' Union
Mawae's influence extended beyond the field as he joined the NFLPA's executive committee in 2002. He was elected President in March 2008 and re-elected in 2010, serving until March 2012. This period was marked by significant challenges, including the passing of Executive Director Gene Upshaw and the 2011 NFL lockout.
Advocating for Players
Mawae's leadership during the lockout was instrumental, with the event potentially influencing the end of his playing career. He expressed pride in player solidarity gestures, such as the 2010 kickoff game demonstration. His presidency ensured active player involvement in collective bargaining agreement negotiations, championing the interests of his fellow athletes.
Transition to Coaching
Chicago Bears Assistant
Following his retirement, Mawae transitioned into coaching. In 2016, he joined the Chicago Bears as an assistant offensive line coach. Although his tenure was brief, it marked his entry into the coaching ranks.
Arizona State & Colts
In 2018, Mawae reunited with former coach Herm Edwards at Arizona State University as an offensive analyst. He later joined the Indianapolis Colts in 2021 as an assistant offensive line coach, progressing to tight ends coach in 2022.
Lipscomb Academy Head Coach
In January 2023, Mawae took on the role of head coach for Lipscomb Academy in Nashville, Tennessee. His tenure concluded in November 2023, following a period where the school faced sanctions related to recruiting violations.
Personal Life and Faith
Family and Heritage
Of Hawaiian descent, Kevin Mawae is married to Tracy Dale Hicks. They are parents to a son, Kirkland, and a daughter, Abigail. The family has resided in Louisiana, reflecting Mawae's deep ties to the region where he played college football.
Faith and Resilience
The tragic loss of his brother, John, profoundly impacted Kevin, shaping his strong Christian faith. This personal journey underscores a deep sense of resilience and conviction that has guided him throughout his life and career.
Distinguished Accolades
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019, the pinnacle of recognition for any professional football player. This honor celebrated his sustained excellence and significant contributions to the sport.
All-Pro and Pro Bowl Selections
Mawae's career was distinguished by an extraordinary number of accolades:
- 8 Pro Bowl selections (1999-2004, 2008, 2009)
- 7 First-team All-Pro selections (1999, 2001, 2008)
- 4 Second-team All-Pro selections (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004)
Team and League Honors
Further recognition includes being named to the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team, receiving PFWA All-Rookie Team honors in 1994, and being inducted into the New York Jets Ring of Honor. His collegiate achievements at LSU also led to his induction into the LSU Athletic Hall of Fame.
Pre-Draft Measurables
Combine Performance Metrics
The NFL Combine provides critical data points for evaluating prospects. Mawae's performance metrics from the combine offered early indicators of his physical capabilities and potential for professional success:
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Click here to open the "Kevin Mawae" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- Kevin Mawae: Game Logs, Season 1994
- Kevin Mawae: Game Logs. Season 1995
- NFL Stats: 2006 season
- Lendale White: Career Stats
- Dirtiest NFL player: Steelers' Ward
- Former Star O-Lineman, NFLPA President Kevin Mawae Lists Tennessee Compound
- NFL Videos: Mawaeรยดs influence
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely current. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, the information should be independently verified.
This is not professional sports or career advice. The information provided is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding athletic careers, player representation, or historical sports data. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific advice tailored to your needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.