Greg Knapp, an American football coach, has passed away after he was hit by a car last weekend in San Ramon, said Sacramento State‘s athletic department. He was 58.
The New York Jets assistant coach was fighting for his life at a local hospital. He was struck by a car while riding his bike Saturday afternoon. He died at the hospital.
San Ramon Police Lt. Tami Williams said Knapp, who lived in Danville, was “riding down Doughtery Road just north of North Monarch Road when he was hit by a car traveling in the same direction.”
Lt. Williams says the driver, a 22-year-old man, remained on the scene and cooperated with investigators. At this point, officials said drugs and alcohol do not appear to be a factor.
He was taken in a critical condition at John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek.
Knapp served as an assistant coach in the NFL for 25 seasons with the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks, and San Francisco 49ers.
Born on March 5, 1963, Knapp played as a quarterback at Sacramento State University. He enjoyed a distinguished career where he ranked among the Hornets’ career leaders with more than 3,800 passing yards and 32 touchdown passes.
Knapp also went to training camps with the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Raiders, and the San Francisco 49ers.
Before joining the 49ers as a coach, he spent nine years on the coaching staff of Sacramento State, as running backs coach from 1986 to 1989, receivers coach from 1989 to 1990, and offensive coordinator/assistant head coach from 1991 to 1994.
Knapp’s family released a statement through the Jets, saying, “While so many know him for his achievements as a coach, his impact as a father and husband are far greater.”
“We are so fortunate to have him in our lives. We are sincerely thankful to all those who have continued to reach out and provide support… It has meant the world to us,” the statement added. Knapp was married to his wife Charlotte and had three daughters.
