Steve McNair's death was hard to process for many around the NFL as the news spread on Independence Day.
It must have been especially surreal for his former coach, Jeff Fisher, upon learning of the incident halfway across the world. Fisher was in a Kuwait airport, while on his way back from a NFL-USO tour in the Persian Gulf.
He was scheduled to return Saturday, but his flight from Baghdad was delayed by sandstorms. He momentarily got cell phone service in Kuwait and received a call from Eddie George, who delivered the news.
"I am deeply saddened and at this point do not have the words to describe this loss,'' Fisher told the Tennessean.
"It is an extremely emotional moment and I don't have the words to explain how I am feeling. I ask people to please pray for Mechelle and the entire McNair family. This is a tragic moment for his family, and it is a tragic moment for anyone who knew and loved Steve.''
Fisher said he'll always remember McNair as one of his favorite players. He coached McNair for more than a decade and the two men became synonymous with the franchise.
"This is so emotional for me, and for everyone. I will
be better prepared to share my thoughts and feelings and hope to put
this into perspective when I return.''
McNair's life will be celebrated in the coming days, but some of the mysteries surrounding his death could be answered Sunday. Autopsies on McNair and Sahel Kazemi will be conducted today.
Fisher Learns Of McNair's Death In Kuwait
Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on July 5, 2009 10:02 AM ET
Didnt Fisher have McNair escorted out of the Titans facilities a few years back? After he had given his body to that franchise? What a prick.
What do you mean he momentarily got cell phone service in Kuwait? The cell phone service is great in Kuwait and much better then West Virginia...maybe because they don't use Sprint over there???
I've lived in Nashville since 1997 and have been a season ticket holder since before the Oilers became the Titans. I once met Steve McNair at an area restaurant about 3 weeks before he was traded to Baltimore. I introduced myself, thanked him for playing his heart out and wished him the best, whether it worked out with the Titans or not. He shook my hand an engaged me in a conversation about the franchise's first win at Adelphia Coliseum (now LP Field). While the details of his death are sketchy (at best) at this point, no matter what is discovered, no one deserves to die like Steve did. As coach Fisher said, I and my family will continue to pray for Mechelle and the four McNair boys. Steve, may you R.I.P.
If you are reading this: Hug your family right now, and as as often as possible after.
then mcnair went back to have din din with his girlfriend du jour.
I am reading this. And I hug my wife and daughter all the time, not some 20 something tramp that has accused me of slipping her a ruffie.
Raise your hand if you think he was trying to bring her to the lord in that hotel room. Yea, I thought so.