Leader of the original ‘Hogs’ calls it a day; Redskins offensive line coach Joe Bugel retires

Redskins offensive line coach Joe Bugel retires

ASHBURN, Va. — “Boss Hog” is retiring.

Washington Redskins offensive line coach Joe Bugel stepped down Wednesday after more than three decades in the NFL.

Bugel says it’s “tough to walk away,” but he’s about to turn 70 and wants to spend time with his family.

New Redskins coach Mike Shanahan says he tried to talk Bugel into staying.

Bugel coached the dominant Redskins offensive line that became known as the “Hogs” in the 1980s, during Joe Gibbs’ first stint as head coach. It was the first offensive line to receive such national prominence, and Washington won two Super Bowls while Bugel was with the team.

Bugel later became a head coach with the Cardinals and Raiders. He returned to Washington in 2004 when Gibbs came out of retirement.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) — The leader of the original “Hogs” is retiring.

Washington Redskins offensive line coach Joe Bugel is stepping down after more than three decades in the NFL.

Bugel coached the dominant Redskins offensive line that became known as the “Hogs” in the 1980s, during Joe Gibbs’ first stint as head coach. Washington won two Super Bowls while Bugel was with the team.

Bugel later became a head coach with the Cardinals and Raiders. He returned to Washington in 2004 when Gibbs came out of retirement.

Bugel’s retirement had been expected. He turns 70 in March, and new Redskins coach Mike Shanahan is overhauling the staff.