The entire NFL community was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Minnesota Vikings offensive line coach Tony Sparano.
Just one day before Vikings coaches and personal were slated to report to training camp, Sparano died tragically and suddenly early Sunday morning.
A veteran of nearly 20 NFL seasons, Sparano’s death was felt throughout the entire National Football League. It came mere days after the 56-year-old was released from the hospital after initially complaining of chest pains.
Now, according to the Hennepin County medical examiner in Minnesota (h/t ESPN), Sparano died from arteriosclerotic heart disease.
The disease itself is said to be caused by high blood pressure, smoking or high cholesterol. Though, a high-intensity job like the ones Sparano held down since entering the NFL back in 1999 could have played a role here.
Prior to joining Minnesota in 2016, Sparano spent time with a multitude of other teams. That included stops as the Miami Dolphins and Oakland Raiders head coach.
Taken from us too early, Sparano is survived by his wife, Jeannette and three children, Tony, Andrew and Ryan Leigh.