The Minnesota Vikings coaches are expected to report back on Monday to prepare for training camp which kicks off for the rookies on Tuesday and in rather shocking fashion, one coach will be not present.
As KSTP reported and the team later confirmed, offensive line coach Tony Sparano died early Sunday morning at the age of 56. The passing was unexpected and has taken people around the NFL by shock. The former Miami Dolphins and Oakland Raiders head coach was known around the league as one of the brightest offensive line coaches around.
TheVikings released the following statement:
With deep regret the Minnesota Vikings announce that Offensive Line Coach Tony Sparano unexpectedly passed away early this morning.
“Our hearts go out to Jeanette and the entire Sparano family as we all mourn the loss of Tony. Tony was a passionate and driven individual who cared deeply about his family, and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Tony's presence within the Vikings organization will be deeply missed. We are only thinking of Tony’s family during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that the entire NFL and Vikings family keep the Sparanos in their thoughts.” – Vikings Owners Mark and Zygi Wilf.
Sparano is survived by his wife, three kids, and four grandchildren. Many current Vikings and players from around their league sent their condolences to the family on Twitter.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Coach Tony Sparano. pic.twitter.com/UVxieE1Q6U
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) July 22, 2018
RIP Coach Sparano 🙏🏿
— Khalil Mack (@FiftyDeuce) July 22, 2018
Sporano Family I am so sorry for your loss. Coach believed in me, trusted me, and stuck with me as a rookie. He would check on my family every HC and QB meeting we would have! He was a great man! I love you coach!
— Derek Carr (@derekcarrqb) July 22, 2018
Really tough to see this, so much respect for this guy, great coach and great person! You will be missed by so many, thoughts and prayers to your family! RIP Coach https://t.co/cTFqtglDcD
— Adam Thielen (@athielen19) July 22, 2018
ClutchPoints send their thoughts and prayers to the Sparano family and everyone in the Vikings organization as they deal with this tragic situation.