His ascent to the top was one of the fastest in NFL history. Gus Bradley entered the NFL in 2006 as a defensive quality control coach. Three seasons later, he was a defensive coordinator. Four seasons after that, he was the head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Growing up, Michaela Bradley thought she wanted to be a teacher. Today, with the infectious energy and the utmost patience that would have made her a great teacher, Michaela Bradley instead finds herself working with young women as the first lady of the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

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Gus and I first crossed paths when North Dakota State was recruiting my brother Steve.  I always remembered Gus being “that happy guy”.  We then crossed paths again when Gus came back a second time to North Dakota State and I had just finished with college and was working in Fargo.  Love at first sight? I think so.

When you fell in love with Gus, did you think that you might someday be living this NFL dream with him? 

I had absolutely no idea what the future had in store for him, for me, or for us. It has been a whirlwind – an AMAZING ONE.  We have never had too much time to think about the next journey. Things happened so fast. We have loved each place and opportunity we have been a part of.

You were very hands-on in all of the charitable events and women’s association event in Seattle. What is your role in the Jaguars Women’s Association in Jacksonville?

We have such a great group of women who are eager to give back to the community. My role is to create a positive, camaraderie-driven group that gives back to our city in ways of purposeful drives, participation and interaction. 

What do you like most about being a part of the NFL?

I love the spirit that lies in this profession, the amazing people we continue to meet, and the opportunities we have with our family and friends.

You and your family were involved in giving mattresses to children who might have never had a real bed to sleep on before then.  Are you involved in any other charities in Jacksonville?  Is there one that has captured your heart? 

We really love the purpose and mission behind Ashley Furniture's: A Hope to Dream program. There is nothing more fulfilling than to walk into a home for a bed delivery and see a child's face light up.  The best nights of a good night sleep are soon to follow. We also are active in providing the Football 101 educational workshop paired with Breast Cancer awareness month. This is an event led by our Jaguars Women’s Association.  In the spring, we also join Wolfsons Childrens Hospital. We completely pamper fifteen recently treated cancer patients, and one of their friends, for the day. 

What great programs and what great opportunities to get involved in meaningful ways. I love the way you look at Gus and the way that you both light up when you talk to or about each other. What is your secret for keeping your marriage strong?  

I have so much respect and admiration for him. His heart is so genuine and as we grow older together in this crazy life, we try to communicate and have strong faith that will keep us on the right path. 

Each year, a new group of young women become NFL wives when their husbands are signed as players or coaches. What advice do you have for the wives of other NFL coaches who may be new to the league? 

Stay true to who you are, don't let this profession change you and remain humble. As we all know, as quickly as good things come, they can quickly be gone.