Steelers Wide Receivers Coach Darryl Drake Dies
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - The Steelers have announced the passing of wide receivers coach Darryl Drake.
Steelers president Art Rooney II said Drake passed away Sunday morning.
The Steelers say their prayers are with Drake's wife, three daughters and grandchildren.
I'm sure players will offer their personal thoughts about Darryl Drake. For me and the time I got to know him, strong Character guy. Old school coach and a man who earned and kept the respect of ALL of his players. #RIPCoachDrake
— Bob Pompeani (@KDPomp) August 11, 2019
Head Coach Mike Tomlin issued a press release about Drake's death:
Darryl was a close friend and had a tremendous impact on my coaching career. 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. My heart and our prayers are with his wife, Sheila, and Darryl's entire family.
Drake's family released a statement Monday, saying:
"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss f our husband, father, grandfather, family member, friend, coach and brother in Christ, Darryl Drake. We would like to express our deepest sentiments of gratitude for the continuous outpouring of concern, love and sympathy. Darryl was a pillar to not only his family, but also to the many lives he touched. Although we are grieving, we remain hopeful and wish to celebrate the life Darryl lived. We are appreciative of the support we have received from the Steelers organization and desire as much privacy as possible at this time. Thank you."
Statement from Darryl Drake's family: pic.twitter.com/Tbj3jR2CMG
— Burt Lauten (@SteelersPRBurt) August 12, 2019
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Practice Sunday and Monday at Saint Vincent College has been canceled and the campus will be closed to fans.
The team resumes practice on Tuesday.
We have announced that Sunday's practice at Saint Vincent College has been cancelled and the campus will be closed to all fans.
MORE: https://t.co/WpUvHAs4RM pic.twitter.com/sSun7hyVyC
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) August 11, 2019
The American Flag at Chuck Noll Field at St. Vincent College has been lowered to half-staff.
#BREAKING: Flag lowered to half staff at Chuck Noll Field at St Vincent College following the death of wide receivers coach Darryl Drake early this morning. Drake was 62. @KDKA pic.twitter.com/yvPq2FaXEF
— Ian Smith (@ismithKDKA) August 11, 2019
Stay with KDKA for the latest on this developing story.