Longtime NFL executive and former New England Patriots coach Bobby Grier died over the weekend, his family confirmed . He was 82.
One of Grier's greatest career accomplishments came in his final year with the Patriots. Serving then as the franchise's vice president of player personnel, Grier played an integral role in scouting and eventually drafting Tom Brady .
"Bobby Grier was a man of tremendous integrity," Patriots owner Robert Kraft said . "He broke barriers and built bridges, and his legacy will forever be part of our franchise's history. We are grateful for his years of service and the impact he had on so many people within our organization and across the NFL. My thoughts are with his family and all who are mourning his loss."
Grier coached the New England backfield fro