Greg Knapp, the passing game coach for the New York Jets, was in critical condition Tuesday after a car struck him while he was riding his bicycle in Northern California, according to multiple reports.
Knapp’s agent, Jeff Sperbeck, told NBC News that the 58-year-old was struck by a vehicle that swerved into a bike lane while Knapp was riding his bicycle in San Ramon on Saturday. The news station reported that Knapp, described as an “avid bicyclist,” lives in nearby Danville during the offseason.
Sperbeck told KUSA late Monday that Knapp had been hospitalized with serious injuries and asked for prayers. The coach’s family reiterated the request in a statement released by the Jets.
“While many know him for his achievements as a coach, his impact as a father and husband are far greater,” the Knapp family said in the statement. “We are sincerely thankful to all those who have continued to reach out and provide support -- it has meant the world to us. We ask that you continue to pray for Greg and our family during this time.”
— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 20, 2021
Jets head coach Robert Saleh also asked for prayers on Tuesday, describing Saturday’s incident as “horrific.”
“Greg is such an amazing individual it is hard to imagine the challenge facing him and his family,” Saleh said in a statement released by the Jets.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 20, 2021
Before he was hired by the Jets this year, Knapp held coaching positions with the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans and Seattle Seahawks, according to USA Today.
Coach Knapp was riding his bicycle when struck by car. He was Broncos QB coach from 2013-16. Peyton set single-season passing records (55 TDs/5,477 yds) that still stand with Knapp in 2013. Knapp helped bring Trevor Siemian from 7th round to 18 TD/3401 yd passer in 2016. #9sports
— Mike Klis (@MikeKlis) July 20, 2021
Early Tuesday, fans and members of the media took to Twitter to wish Knapp a speedy recovery.
Greg Knapp, a former 49ers and Raiders assistant, makes his offseason home in the East Bay. One of the absolute best people I’ve met in this line of work. Communicated with him recently, and he was so excited about future with Jets. Thinking of Greg and his family. https://t.co/wJlvc7o81S
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) July 20, 2021
Prayers to Knapper. Known him for over 20 years. Former 49ers & Raiders (& San Ramon Valley HS JV softball) assistant. Loving father and husband. 🙏 https://t.co/a9nRBVMtxh
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) July 20, 2021
Prayers up for former Raiders passing specialist Greg Knapp https://t.co/wVE32vEJWz
— Kenny King Jr (@KennyKing_Jr) July 20, 2021
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