Al Simmons, who coached more than three decades in football and prior to that had an all-conference playing career at California State University-Hayward -- now Cal State East Bay -- died suddenly last weekend.
Simmons suffered a heart attack and passed away.
He had impacted many throughout his decades of coaching, growing up in Oakland, California, and then coaching parts of six seasons in the NFL as well as with numerous collegiate programs including Arizona State, California, San Jose State and UNLV among others.
"He touched many of lives throughout his pro and college coaching career," Fresno State assistant head coach Tim Skipper told FootballScoop.
New Mexico State head coach Tony Sanchez was among a number of members of the coaching community who paid his respects online to Simmons.
Received sad news yesterday that we lost an absolute gem of a man. Al Simmons was a good friend, a great coach, & an even better person. From Oakland High / Laney to an amazing career coaching in college & in the NFL he was the consummate pro! Love you coach RIP 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/sW3LS3XbzO
— Coach Tony Sanchez (@Coach_TSanchez) February 10, 2024
Former NFL veteran wideout and current Utah wide receivers coach Alvis Whitted also paid tribute to Simmons.
I’m at a Loss Coach! I worked with Al at Colorado State. One of the All Time Greats as a Person and Coach. He will be missed. Sincerest condolences and prayers to you and his family 🙏🏾 💔
— Alvis James Whitted (@CoachWhitted) February 10, 2024
Simmons's NFL stints included time with the Chargers, Cowboys, Cardinals, Raiders and San Francisco 49ers.
Though he pitched in to help coach special teams, filled various recruiting roles and developed a well-rounded skill-set, Simmons was most known for his excellent work in coaching in the secondary, helping several players earn professional opportunities.
Coach Simmons family has shared details for Al's funeral and celebration of life.