Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers coach Darryl Drake died suddenly on Sunday at the age of 62, according to a team announcement.
Cause of death was not immediately disclosed, and the Steelers cancelled camp practice for Sunday.
“We are at a loss for words following Darryl Drake’s passing this morning. Darryl had such an impact on the players he coached and everyone he worked with throughout his entire career. He was a passionate coach and had a tremendous spirit toward life, his family, his faith and the game of football,” Steelers president Art Rooney II said in an official statement.
Drake was entering his second season as the Steelers’ wide receivers coach, and has spent 16 years coaching in the NFL.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with his wife, Sheila, his three daughters, his grandchildren and entire family during this difficult time.”
“Darryl was a close friend and had a tremendous impact on my coaching career,” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said in a statement. “He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather, and it is difficult to put into words the grief our entire team is going through right now.
“Darryl loved the game of football and every player he ever coached. We will use our faith to guide us and help his family throughout the difficult time.”