Longtime NFL Executive Bobby Grier Dies at 82

Bobby Grier, a respected NFL executive whose career spanned seven decades, passed away at 82. He began as a running back at the University of Iowa and started coaching high school football in 1966 before moving to college coaching and then the NFL. Grier joined the New England Patriots in 1981 as an assistant coach, eventually rising to vice president of player personnel, and was involved in the Patriots' iconic 2000 draft selection of Tom Brady. After leaving New England in 2000, he contributed to the Houston Texans' player personnel department for 16 years and later consulted for the Miami Dolphins until his death. His legacy continues through his sons: Chris Grier, general manager of the Miami Dolphins, and Mike Grier, general manager of the NHL's San Jose Sharks. Colleagues praised him as a strong, silent leader who inspired others to achieve more.