/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60449825/usa_today_9500846.1532279440.jpg)
Multiple sources are reporting that Minnesota Vikings’ Offensive Line Coach Tony Sparano has passed away at the age of 56.
This is obviously a very early report and very few details are known at this point, but as more details come in we will have them here for you.
Sparano joined the Vikings’ coaching staff prior to the 2016 season after the firing of Jeff Davidson. He had a history of working with head coach Mike Zimmer, as the two of them were on the coaching staff of the Dallas Cowboys together from 2003 to 2008 under Bill Parcells.
Sparano also served as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins from 2008 to 2011, and was also an interim coach for the Oakland Raiders in 2014.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tony Sparano’s wife, Jeanette, and their four children.
Again, Minnesota Vikings Offensive Line Coach Tony Sparano has passed away at the age of 56.
The Vikings have released a statement, relayed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Vikings announced that OL coach Tony Sparano has passed away. Horrible.... pic.twitter.com/GnrO7Rhv52
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 22, 2018
Mike Zimmer and Rick Spielman also have statements on Sparano’s passing.
Statements from #Vikings GM Rick Spielman and head coach Mike Zimmer on the passing of Tony Sparano: pic.twitter.com/aUFd0R8Nxc
— Vikings Corner (@VikingsCorner) July 22, 2018