Aaron Glenn is an undisputed perfectionist, on and off the football field. Glenn comes from Humble, Texas, and his rise from college athlete to NFL head coach is an example of hard work, talent, and relentless pursuit. Glenn was a two-time All-American at Texas A&M and he broke some records that still sound like they were there today: 20 pass defenses in one season, 19.9 punt return average, and 131 punt return yards in a game. Three Pro Bowls and six interception-return touchdowns in 15 seasons of the NFL — there is no record like it.

On top of his athletic accomplishments, Glenn’s coaching career has added to his credentials as a football genius. “A special player” in the words of Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell, who can “communicate, relate, push, grind, love, and demand.”

But even greats like Glenn need a solid foundation, and for him, that’s his wife.

Devaney Glenn: Woman who made the man

Aaron Glenn’s wife Devaney Glenn is Aaron Glenn’s rock, his confidante, and his biggest fan. The couple’s love story began when they were both students at Texas A&M when Devaney won Aaron’s heart with her personality and intellect. They started dating as Glenn was building his reputation as a superstar cornerback and they were married in 1994, in his second season with the New York Jets.

When Aaron’s job moved him from New York to Houston, Dallas, and the rest of the US, Devaney was the anchor that kept their family steady. She overcame moving, seasons, and careers with grace and tenacity so Aaron could get back to his game.

“Devaney’s been my anchor through it all,” Glenn once shared. “Whether I was a player, a scout, or a coach, she’s been the steady force keeping our family moving forward.”

We can’t stress enough how important Devaney was to Aaron’s career. From saying positive things to him after a hard loss to keeping the family on track while Aaron re-watches the games, she’s part of his success. Glenn is a legend and coach of the NFL, but it’s Devaney who has been his north star. She’s been by his side in every struggle and triumph, shepherding their family with care and equanimity.

The Glenn family: Parenting the next generation

Aaron and Devaney have three children of their own: Aaron II, Tristen, and Rheagan who embody their parents’ passion and will. Aaron II, the older, has grown up like his father: avidly sport-minded, exhibiting the same diligence and concentration. And middle daughter Tristen has translated her creativity into a successful career in fashion as a result of the hard work and dedication of her parents. The youngest, Rheagan, is an exceptional student and teacher, an example of the family’s ambition and hard work.

Family, all taken together, represents work ethic, personality, and accomplishment. Devaney has been a big part of supporting them and giving each child the tools and opportunity to follow their passions. While Aaron’s job was a bit cumbersome, Devaney made the house a home and made their family always blissful, and blissful is their love for everyone around them.

Community is the Glenns’ priority: The Aaron Glenn Foundation is a charity founded in 2003 by the Glenns. Through education and health programs, the foundation reached hundreds of thousands of families and children in communities where it didn’t otherwise reach. Devaney helps run the foundation, orchestrating events and ensuring its programs are in line with the family’s mission to inspire others. From scholarships to wellness drives, the Aaron Glenn Foundation is in the family. Tristen and Rheagan too have lent their hands, donating time and talents to build the foundation. The Glenns have combined for an inheritance that stretches well beyond the football field: a legacy of perseverance, community, and giving.

Devaney’s is a story that makes us all remind ourselves that behind every great man, there is a great woman, an ode to this beautiful family, and an abundance of love for them, in the words of the legend himself “Family is the foundation of everything I do. The love, strength, and passion they’ve given me fuel my every step, and I’m proud to watch each of them shine in their own way. Together, we’re unstoppable.”