Former Penn State head coach Joe Paterno died last night at the age of 85. The legend was the head coach of Penn State for 46 years, and holds the record for most career wins in major college football with 409. He was fired earlier this season after sexual abuse scandal surrounding his former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky, but in light of his passing, thoughts are focused on his family and his legacy.
Players from around the NFL have been weighing in on coach Paterno:
Buffalo Bills safety Bryan Scott, class of 2003, released the following statement
It’s really difficult to find words that encompass what Coach Paterno will forever mean to me.
He reinforced that a man’s character, morals, values and fundamentals were the main ingredient for success.
Succeeding in the classroom, succeeding at your job, succeeding at home, should all be placed before success on the football field.The fact that the all-time winningest collegiate coach placed a much higher precedence on guiding his players to a successful life, is indicative of his authentic values and iconic character.
He brought great perspective to my life, and I will always and forever take those lessons, live by them, and pass them forward.
Heath Evans via @HeathEvans: “Thoughts on Paterno? GREAT coach that was in need of GRACE & MERCY just like ALL of us! Hopefully he received it! My Prayers are w/his Fam.”
Former Buffalo Bill Andre Reed, via Andre Reed @Andre_Reed83: “Regardless of the scandal, Joe Paterno was and will always be Penn State and college football…RIP Joe.”
Jacoby Ford via @JacobyFord12 : “Heart goes out to Joe Paterno and his family!”
DeSean Jackson via @DeseanJackson10: “R.I.P Joe Paterno many years at high success.. Legacy leads on!! Sendin my prayers to all friends an fam of the Paterno’s”
Da’Norris Searcy via @DSearcy21: “RIP to Coach Joe Paterno you will be missed”
Myron Rolle via @MyronRolle: “Gave me ‘The Alchemist’ to read as a soph in hs. Very caring man and great leader. Will be missed, Coach Paterno.”
