Former Falcons assistant Knapp in critical condition after accident

Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks coach Greg Knapp looks on as Matt Ryan throws a pass during team practice on Tuesday, June 5, 2018, in Flowery Branch.  Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: Curtis Compton

Credit: Curtis Compton

Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks coach Greg Knapp looks on as Matt Ryan throws a pass during team practice on Tuesday, June 5, 2018, in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton/ccompton@ajc.com

Former Falcons offensive coordinator Greg Knapp has been hospitalized in critical condition after suffering injuries in a bicycle accident over the weekend.

Knapp’s agent Jeff Sperbeck confirmed the news to Mike Klis on Denver television’s 9NEWS. Knapp was struck by a car in California.

Knapp has coached in the NFL for 23 seasons with seven teams, including two stints with the Falcons. He served as offensive coordinator from 2004-06 and quarterbacks coach from 2018-20. He helped the Falcons get to the NFC title game with Michael Vick at quarterback after the 2004 regular season.

Knapp is the passing-game specialist for the Jets. He also has worked for the Broncos, 49ers, Raiders, Seahawks and Texans.

Knapp’s family released a statement through the New York Jets thanking everyone who has inquired about his well-being.

Greg is an amazing father and husband whose passion for life can be felt in all his interactions with people,” the statement reads. “He is our rock and biggest supporter, pushing us to all strive to better ourselves each day with constant love and inspiration. While many know him for his achievements as a coach, his impact as a father and husband are far greater. We are so fortunate to have him in our lives. We are sincerely thankful to all those who have continued to reach out and provide support — it has meant the world to us. We ask that you continue to pray for Greg and our family during this time.”

Jets coach Robert Saleh also released a statement on Knapp.

“Greg is such an amazing individual it is hard to imagine the challenge facing him and his family,” Saleh said. “Greg’s fun nature, kind disposition, and wealth of knowledge has allowed him to make genuine connections with all of our coaches, players and staff since he has been here. I ask that you keep him in your prayers as we all pull for him to recover from this horrific accident.”

Knapp was one of several Falcons assistants not retained with the hire of new coach Arthur Smith before Knapp joined the Jets.