Darryl Drake’s passing was a profound loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers organization and the NFL Pittsburgh Steelers at large. His death on August 11, 2019, left a void that was deeply felt by both his colleagues and the players he mentored throughout his illustrious career. At 62, Drake had established himself as one of the NFL’s most respected wide receivers coaches, known for his passion, wisdom, and dedication to the players he coached.
Before joining the Steelers in 2018, Drake had a remarkable coaching journey that spanned both college and professional football. He had worked for the Chicago Bears (2004-2012) and the Arizona Cardinals (2013-2017), where he coached elite wide receivers like Larry Fitzgerald, Antonio Brown, and Brandon Marshall. His ability to develop talent was a hallmark of his career; under his guidance, players such as Fitzgerald achieved tremendous success, including his 11th Pro Bowl selection in 2017. Drake’s impact went beyond the field, as he was known for fostering strong relationships with his players, helping them grow both as athletes and individuals.
The Steelers were particularly affected by his sudden passing. Head coach Mike Tomlin, who had worked closely with Drake, expressed his grief, describing him as an amazing husband, father, and grandfather, whose influence on the team was immeasurable. The entire Steelers community rallied around Drake’s family in the aftermath, with messages of support flooding in from across the league. Former players like Jerome Bettis and current stars like JuJu Smith-Schuster took to social media to share their condolences, reflecting on the positive impact Drake had on their lives.
Drake’s death also led to a deep emotional response from his colleagues and former players, who remembered him not only for his coaching acumen but for his character. The Steelers canceled a practice in tribute, and the grief was palpable as the team prepared to navigate their season without their beloved coach. While his time with the Steelers was tragically short, his legacy as a mentor and leader continues to resonate throughout the NFL.
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