Willie Peete, former NFL coach, dies at 87

In the United States, Willie Peete, a notable figure in American football coaching, passed away on December 2 at the age of 87. He had a significant influence on the sport, particularly during his time with the Green Bay Packers in the 1980s and 1990s. Peete was known for his role as the offensive backfield coach and brought his extensive coaching experience from previously serving at the University of Arizona and the Kansas City Chiefs. His coaching career spanned multiple decades, and he was respected for mentoring several players, including his son, Rodney Peete. Willie Peete enjoyed a diverse coaching career before ultimately joining the Packers. He served as a coach at the University of Arizona from 1971 to 1982, where he honed his skills and gained recognition for developing young talent. After his tenure in Arizona, he joined the Kansas City Chiefs' coaching staff from 1987 to 1991. When head coach Forrest Gregg hired him in 1987, Peete's responsibilities included overseeing special teams, a role he continued to fulfil the following year when Lindy Infante took over as head coach, retaining him as the backfield coach. However, Peete’s coaching career faced a turning point when Ron Wolf became the general manager of the Packers in 1991 and subsequently fired Infante. As a consequence, Peete lost his coaching position, showcasing the often volatile nature of coaching careers within professional sports. Despite this setback, Peete continued to be a supportive figure in the life of his son Rodney, who had a successful career as an NFL quarterback, playing for teams such as the Detroit Lions and the Philadelphia Eagles. Following Peete's passing, tributes poured in from various corners of the football community, emphasizing the impact he made on the sport as a coach and a father. A celebration of his life is scheduled to take place in his hometown of Mesa, Arizona, showcasing the memories and respect held by those who knew him. His legacy will be cherished not just by his family but also by the many players who benefited from his coaching approach and dedication to the game.