Forrest Gregg, lineman for mighty Packers teams, dies at 85

Forrest Gregg, the great lineman for the mighty Green Bay Packers of the 1960s whom Vince Lombardi called the “best player I ever coached,” has died. He was 85.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced his death Friday but did not disclose details.

A member of the Hall of Fame, Gregg starred at tackle and guard. He played on six NFL/NFC championship teams and three Super Bowl winners. He was elected to the NFL’s all-decade team of the 1960s and its 75th anniversary team.

He went on to coach in the NFL for 11 years and the CFL for three years, with the Toronto Argonauts in 1979 and the Shreveport Pirates in 1994 and 1995. Gregg coached Cleveland (1975-77), Cincinnati (1980-83) and Green Bay (1984-87). He guided the Bengals to their first Super Bowl during the 1981 season.

Gregg also worked in the Ottawa Renegades’ front office in 2005 and 2006.

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Gregg began his NFL career in 1956 and played a final season with the Dallas Cowboys in 1971.

He entered the Hall of Fame in 1977. Its president, David Baker, described him as a “giant” who “exemplified greatness during a legendary career.”

“He was the type of player who led by example and, in doing so, raised the level of play of all those around him,” Baker said in a statement. “Forrest symbolized many great traits and virtues that can be learned from this game to inspire people from all walks of life.”

The flag at the Hall will be flown at half-staff.

Survivors include his wife, Barb.

The Associated Press