HOUSTON (July 16, 2005) -- Former Houston Oilers coach Bum Phillips was released from the hospital July 16 after undergoing triple bypass heart surgery more than a week ago.
Phillips, 81, returned home to his ranch in Goliad, about 150 miles southwest of Houston.
He underwent surgery July 8 at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital after doctors discovered blockage in his arteries. They found no evidence of heart damage.
Hospital officials on Saturday said Phillips was progressing on schedule and will participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program, which is a standard course of treatment.
Phillips coached the Oilers from 1975-80. He was responsible for drafting Earl Campbell in 1978 and was fired on New Year's Eve of 1980 after the Oilers lost a playoff game to the Oakland Raiders.
He then coached the New Orleans Saints from 1981 to 1985, before retiring.
