Yes, Andy Reid is a practicing member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Kansas City Chiefs head coach has been a member of the faith for decades, balancing a high-profile career in professional football with personal religious convictions.
People often ask about his background because of his ties to Brigham Young University and his decades-long marriage. While he doesn't use his platform to preach from the podium, his spiritual foundation shapes how he handles adversity, leads players, and manages his family life.
Growing Up Lutheran and Transferring to BYU
Long before winning Super Bowls, Reid grew up in Los Angeles as a not-very-observant Lutheran. Sports dominated his early life, leading him to play offensive tackle. His athletic path eventually brought him to Brigham Young University (BYU), a private institution owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Transferring to BYU put Reid in an environment deeply intertwined with the culture and values of the church. While he arrived as a Lutheran, attending classes, playing football under legendary coach LaVell Edwards, and immersing himself in the campus community exposed him to new theological perspectives. To understand the full picture, we recommend the excellent article by FOX Sports.
Meeting Tammy and Converting to the Faith
The turning point in Reid's spiritual journey came during his college years when he met his future wife, Tammy. As their relationship progressed, Reid began exploring her faith more seriously.
He later shared that he appreciated the emphasis the community placed on physical and mental fitness, structured youth programs, and a disciplined lifestyle. Beyond the cultural alignment, Reid spent significant time studying the Bible and the Book of Mormon.
Before proposing, Reid decided to formally convert. He asked Tammy's father to baptize him, marking his official entry into the church. The couple married in August 1981 and have raised five children together, maintaining strong ties to their religious community throughout his coaching career across Philadelphia and Kansas City.
How Faith Shapes His Coaching Style
Football locker rooms are notoriously high-stress environments filled with intense emotions, colorful language, and constant pressure. Yet, players and assistant coaches frequently note that Reid maintains a calm, steady demeanor.
Reid has noted in interviews that his religious framework influences everything he does, from how he treats staff to how he handles player discipline. Rather than lecturing players about theology, he tries to lead by quiet example. He focuses on patience, accountability, and treating others with respect, drawing parallels between the trials described in scripture and the daily challenges of professional sports.
When volatile situations arise on the field or sideline, Reid often acts as a steady anchor. He relies on perspective and communication rather than emotional outbursts, an approach rooted in trying to model Christlike patience during stressful moments.
Common Misconceptions About NFL Coaches and Faith
Navigating public life as a prominent sports figure with strong religious beliefs often leads to public curiosity and assumptions.
- Is he a spokesperson for the church? No. While Reid occasionally participates in faith-based community events or podcasts to discuss how he balances his career and beliefs, he is a football coach first and foremost. He does not use team press conferences as a pulpit.
- Does his faith affect his hiring decisions? Reid builds coaching staffs based on merit, experience, and trust. While he has occasionally crossed paths with fellow BYU alumni or members of his faith in coaching circles, his staffs feature a diverse mix of backgrounds and beliefs.
- Is BYU membership mandatory for his staff? Absolutely not. The vast majority of players and assistant coaches he has worked with across the Eagles and Chiefs do not share his religious background.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Andy Reid convert?
Reid converted to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while attending Brigham Young University in the late 1970s or early 1980s, shortly before marrying his wife Tammy in August 1981.
Did Andy Reid serve a mission?
No. Traditional full-time proselytizing missions are common for young adult members of the church, but Reid converted as a college student already heavily invested in collegiate football, so he did not serve a traditional mission.
How many children do Andy and Tammy Reid have?
Andy and Tammy have five children: sons Britt, Spencer, and Garrett, and daughters Crosby and Drew.
Does Andy Reid talk about his religion publicly?
Rarely in post-game press conferences, but he occasionally discusses his faith on podcasts, at university symposiums, or in interviews when asked directly about his personal background and family life.
