Jets assistant Greg Knapp dies after being hit by car while biking
New York Jets passing-game specialist Greg Knapp, a longtime NFL assistant coach, has died as a result of injuries sustained after he was hit by a vehicle while riding his bicycle this past weekend.
The Knapp family released a statement through the Jets' Twitter account.
A statement from the Knapp family.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 22, 2021
“Today at 11:32 am PST, Greg Knapp (aka Knapper) was called back home to Heaven, where he will be reunited with his Dad.
"On Saturday, July 17th 2021, Greg was struck by a car while riding his bicycle, and was rendered unconscious immediately. Greg never regained consciousness. He was surrounded by his mom, his wife, 3 daughters, and his brother.
"Greg spent 33 years coaching football, the first 9 at Sacramento State (where he also played QB) and the next 24 years in the NFL as an Offensive Coordinator and Quarterback Coach. He coached hundreds of players, including: Steve Young, Jeff Garcia, Rick Mirer, Matt Schaub, Michael Vick, Peyton Manning, Matt Ryan, and most recently Zach Wilson.
"Those of us who were so blessed to have known him, know that he would have wanted even this moment to be a teachable one. So this is it...'Live every day as if it's your last, and love those around you like it won't last!'
"Greg's infectious personality is most people's first and lasting memory of him. The phrase 'He never met a stranger' encapsulates Knapper's zest for life. He had a unique gift to make everyone feel special, and to Knapper, they all were.
"While his family, friends and players still had so much to learn from him and desperately wished they had more time with him, God called an audible and wanted to go over the game plan directly with him. It will certainly be a masterpiece, just like Greg!
"Please visit http://caringbridge.org post photos, memories or notes to his family and information for Celebration of Life service."
Jets owner Woody Johnson and head coach Robert Saleh both released statements on Knapp.
— Woody Johnson (@woodyjohnson4) July 22, 2021
— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 22, 2021
Knapp, 58, had been in the hospital in critical condition since the weekend, when his bicycle was struck by a vehicle in San Ramon, California, located roughly 27 miles east of Oakland.
A single motorist reportedly struck Knapp at approximately 2:49 p.m. on Saturday, according to a police report. The preliminary investigation revealed that drugs and/or alcohol were not a factor, and the vehicle's driver — whose name is being withheld — has reportedly cooperated with police in their investigation.
In a 23-year NFL career, Knapp coached with seven different franchises. He came to the Jets from the Atlanta Falcons, where he'd spent the past three seasons. Knapp has been an offensive coordinator with the San Francisco 49ers, Falcons, Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans.
Football world mourns Knapp
Knapp interacted with many teams, players and reporters over his long football career. Many tweeted about him Thursday afternoon, sharing memories and sending condolences to his family.
Bears TE coach and best friend of Greg Knapp confirms the news we didn’t want to hear. pic.twitter.com/gPFPFRRRvz
— FOX 5 Sports (@FOX5Sports) July 22, 2021
We’re heartbroken by the sudden, tragic passing of former Broncos QB Coach Greg Knapp.
We will all remember “Knapper” for his kindness, humor and fun-loving approach to life.
We’re sending our deepest condolences to the entire Knapp family. 🧡 pic.twitter.com/ou5Z2QihzS— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) July 22, 2021
“He was a tremendous football coach who achieved at the highest levels of our game, but more importantly he was a wonderful person who had the love, admiration and respect of those who were blessed to work with him.” - Arthur Blank
Rest In Peace, Greg Knapp. pic.twitter.com/aEJJiTliQb— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) July 22, 2021
The Raiders are saddened and stunned to hear of the passing of Greg Knapp, who served as offensive coordinator over two stints with the Silver and Black.
The thoughts and prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with Coach Knapp’s family during this extremely difficult time. pic.twitter.com/EdU6TGOncF— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) July 22, 2021
Devastated to hear of the tragic passing of former Hornet quarterback and coach Greg Knapp. Our thoughts are with his friends and family. https://t.co/lBPxqsVa4q pic.twitter.com/e4AquKVk5j
— Sac State Football (@SacHornetsFB) July 22, 2021
Every time anyone saw Greg Knapp in the halls, he always made the time to say hello. He was the type of guy you would see walking around at the Combine and make the time to join you and others you worked with for lunch. Knapper was one of the most genuine people I have ever met.
— Kelsey Conway (@KelseyLConway) July 22, 2021
Greg Knapp was everything that was amazing about asst coaches in the NFL—investment. He invested is me and so many others with a joy that was so rare. Devastating news for his family. My prayers of comfort are with his family.🙏🙏🙏
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) July 22, 2021
More from Yahoo Sports: