Bobby Grier, Football Legend with Seven Decades of Career, Passes Away
The American football community mourns the loss of Bobby Grier, whose distinguished career as a coach and executive in the NFL spanned seven decades. The family confirmed his passing at the age of 82. Grier began his career in the NFL in 1981 as an assistant coach for the New England Patriots, remaining with the franchise until the 2000 draft. In 1993, he moved from the sidelines to management, becoming vice president of player personnel. Subsequently, he held executive roles with the Houston Texans (2000-2016) and as a consultant for the Miami Dolphins (2017-2025). Grier’s sons, Chris and Mike, have also made their mark in sports. Chris is the general manager of the NFL’s Dolphins, while Mike holds the same position with the NHL’s San Jose Sharks.In his last draft with the Patriots, Grier was key in the selection of quarterback Tom Brady in the sixth round. A moment that, according to his son Mike, filled his father with pride. Grier’s legacy also includes his crucial role in the selection of J.J. Watt by the Texans in the 2011 draft. His influence in the world of American football was undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on every team and person he collaborated with. Grier, born in Detroit, played as a running back at the University of Iowa from 1961 to 1964. He began his coaching career in Michigan high schools before moving to the college level as a running backs coach at Eastern Michigan in 1974. In 1978, he joined Boston College as a running backs coach, which led him to settle in New England for more than two decades and raise his children in the suburb of Holliston.Bobby was the strong and silent type, a leader who always brought out the best in you. I was lucky enough to see him as a coach and then as a personnel executive. He inspired people to think big and do bigger things.
Andre Tippett, former Patriots linebacker and Hall of Famer
