Hall of Fame player Forrest Gregg dies at age 85



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Forrest Gregg, who earned the nickname "Iron Man" for playing 188 consecutive games in the NFL, a record-breaking career in the Hall of Fame, died Friday in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was 85 years old.

The former offensive lineman, who has been a seven-time professional and nine-time pro player, played 15 seasons in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys from 1956 to 1971.

Legendary coach Vince Lombardi has already referred to Gregg as "the best player I've ever coached."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara and the Gregg family," said Packers President Mark Murphy. "He was a legendary player on the team, one of the best in our history, has improved his team's playing level, and has built strong relationships with the organization over the years. enjoyed returning to Lambeau Field and seeing fans enjoying it across the state. "

Forrest Gregg, called "the best player I've ever coached" by Vince Lombardi, has won six NFL titles with the Packers and Cowboys. After his playing career, he coached the Bengals, Browns and Packers. He was registered in the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1977. Manny Rubio / USA TODAY Sports

After his playing career, Gregg coached the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns and Packers, a 75-85-1 record in 11 seasons. He led Cincinnati to the Super Bowl after the 1981 season, when the Bengals lost 26 to 21 to San Francisco.

"The game has lost a giant today," said Hall of Fame president David Baker in a statement. Forrest Gregg was an example of greatness during a legendary career that earned him a tanned bust in Canton.He was the kind of player who preached by example and, in doing so, raised the standard Forrest's game symbolized great traits and virtues that can be drawn from this game to inspire people from all walks of life. "

As goalkeeper and striker, Gregg has won half a dozen NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls with the Packers. Gregg ended his career with another Super Bowl title with the Cowboys in 1971.

He was registered in the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1977.

Gregg, from Birthright, Texas, played college at SMU. He was selected by the Packers in the second round of the 1956 NFL Draft.

Gregg was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2011, and he had a melanoma defeat in 1976 and colon cancer in 2001.

Associated Press contributed to this report.

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