The Houston Cougars recently dedicated a special practice at TDECU Stadium to honor the legacy of Greg Knapp, a beloved NFL assistant coach who tragically lost his life in a distracted driving accident. This week, the team took to the stadium steps to show their support for the Coach Knapp Memorial Fund, a foundation committed to raising awareness of the dangers of distracted driving. The fund aims to reduce accidents caused by drivers who are not fully focused on the road, saving lives and preventing future tragedies.
Greg Knapp had an impressive 25-year coaching career in the NFL, where he made a lasting impact on veteran and younger players alike. He has served as an assistant coach for several teams, including the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. Known as a “quarterback whisperer,” Knapp mentored some of the greatest players in NFL history, including Peyton Manning. His coaching style, combining humor, kindness and confidence, left a lasting impression on the many athletes who had the chance to work with him.
Greg Knapp was a beloved NFL coach for 25 years who was tragically killed by a distracted driver in July 2021.
To raise money and awareness about the dangers of distracted driving, we’re continuing its tradition of taking the stairs before the game, and we’re asking you to join us in doing your… pic.twitter.com/0cDlqNvxoO
– Houston Football (@UHCougarFB) October 10, 2024
Knapp was about to begin his first season with the New York Jets when tragedy struck. While cycling in California, he was struck by a distracted driver, an accident that would claim his life in 2021. The incident highlighted the growing dangers posed by distracted driving, particularly with the he widespread use of cell phones and other modern technologies that distract drivers. be careful of the road.
Former NFL player Nick Ferguson, who played for the Texans while Knapp was an assistant coach, praised the efforts of Houston head coach Willie Fritz and his staff for participating in this meaningful initiative . “Focusing on the road while driving has become a major focus,” remarked Ferguson. “Coach Knapp would still be alive if not for a distracted driver. We owe it to him and ourselves to prevent such a similar tragedy from happening to another family.”
In response to the tragedy, Knapp’s wife, Charlotte, and his close friend and agent, Jeff Sperbeck, created the Coach Knapp Memorial Fund. The fund seeks to honor Knapp’s memory by educating drivers about the risks of distracted driving, advocating for reform and ultimately preventing similar accidents. Through initiatives like the one supported by the Houston Cougars, Knapp’s legacy continues to inspire change and promote road safety.
