# Sherman Lewis, Michigan State All-American and Former Lions Offensive Coordinator, Dies at 83
Sherman Lewis, a first-team All-American at Michigan State and longtime assistant coach who won four Super Bowl titles, died Friday at age 83.
The Athletic reported his passing on Saturday. Lewis spent decades coaching in the NFL, including serving as offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions from 2002 to 2004.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sherman Lewis, the article said.
Lewis earned his All-America honors in 1963 while at Michigan State. He finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting that season, behind Navy quarterback Roger Staubach. The Spartans rushed for 577 yards with 303 receiving yards and nine total touchdowns in nine games during his final season.
He was inducted into the Michigan State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2001. Lewis won three Big Ten track titles during his college career, one in the 300-yard dash and two in the long jump.
His NFL coaching career included stints with the San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, and Washington Commanders. He won championships with the 49ers in 1985 and 1989 as running backs coach on Bill Walsh's staff. He added another title in 1990 with the 49ers under George Seifert. His final championship came in 1997 as offensive coordinator for the Packers under Mike Holmgren.
The Athletic NFL Staff reported the news on May 17, 2026. Michigan State Football announced his passing with a tweet on May 16.