LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP)–Minnesota Vikings offensive line coach and former Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano died unexpectedly Sunday at the age of 56, the Vikings announced.
“With deep regret the Minnesota Vikings announce that Offensive Line Coach Tony Sparano unexpectedly passed away early this morning,” a statement issued on behalf of team owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said, giving no mention of a cause of death.
Vikings general manager Rick Spielman added: “I am at a loss for words with Tony’s sudden passing.
“Tony loved the game of football and his players,” Spielman said. “More importantly, he was a strong man of faith who treasured his family. My heart is with the Sparanos today. As an organization we will support them in whatever ways we can.”
Sparano was entering his third season as the Vikings’ offensive line coach under Mike Zimmer.
His two-decade career in the NFL coaching ranks began in 1999 when he was hired as an offensive quality control coach for the new Cleveland Browns franchise.
After several assistant coaching jobs with multiple NFL teams, the Dolphins made Sparano as their head coach in 2008 in the wake of a 1-15 season.
He guided Miami to an 11-5 mark and a first-place finish in the AFC East division in 2008, becoming the first coach in NFL history to lead a team to the post-season after a one-win campaign.
Sparano also served as the Oakland Raiders’ interim head coach in 2014 after the team fired Dennis Allen.
ESPN reported that Sparano’s wife, Jeanette, found him unconscious in the family kitchen Sunday morning. On Thursday, ESPN said, Sparano went to the hospital for tests after complaining of chest pains. He was released on Friday.
“Devastated to hear the news about Coach Sparano passing,” new Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins said on Twitter. “Praying for his family through this tough time.”
© Agence France-Presse