Former Miami Dolphins coach Tony Sparano has died at the age of 56.
Since 2016, Sparano had served as the offensive line coach for the Minnesota Vikings, who confirmed his death.
“Our hearts go out to Jeanette and the entire Sparano family as we all mourn the loss of Tony,” Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said in a statement. “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.”
Sparano worked for nine NFL teams in his coaching career, including coaching the Dolphins from 2008 to 2011 and serving as Oakland Raiders interim head coach in 2014. He also had stints with the Cleveland Browns, Washington Redskins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers.
He had reunited with coach Mike Zimmer in Minnesota. The two coached under Bill Parcells with the Cowboys from 2003 to 2006.
Sparano was 32-41 as a head coach and took the Dolphins to his only playoff appearance during his first season in 2008.
Source : ESPN
