Houston Texans owner Bob McNair passed away Friday at 81 years old, after owning the franchise since its inception in 2002. Many around the league took to social media in response to the news.
Statement from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell:
"During his nearly two decades as an NFL owner, Bob McNair left a lasting mark on his city and our league. His leadership and determination brought the NFL back to Houston, built a magnificent stadium that hosted two Super Bowls, and his beloved Texans are in the midst of another successful season and are again contending for a place in the postseason. Off the field, Bob served with distinction as the chairman of the Finance Committee and was recognized in South Carolina, his adopted home of Houston, and elsewhere for his extraordinary philanthropic and community development work. He cared deeply about the league and was generous with his time and willingness to share his insights as an exceptional businessman. But above all, Bob was a family man. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Janice, their family, the Texans, and the entire Houston community."
Statement from Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones:
"Bob's stature, and the manner in which he carried himself and guided his franchise, commanded the respect of everyone in the ownership room of the NFL. His love for his team, and especially his players, was unsurpassed by any NFL owner that I have known. I am most grateful and indebted to him for bringing Houston back the the NFL and re-establishing that great metropolitan area in our state as an NFL city. I am privileged to have been his friend. We have lost a great Texan, sportsman and a wonderful person. He was not only a strong personal and professional influence on me, but his presence in the NFL helped grow and develop our league on so many levels."
Statement from Tennessee Titans Controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk:
"On behalf of the Titans organization, I would like to send our condolences to the McNair family and the entire Texans organization. I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to work with Bob and to have the opportunity to spend time with someone who had known and been a league partner with my Dad. I have seen first-hand what Bob and his family have meant to the city of Houston. He was generous to many causes with his time, energy and resources. We are better as a league for having had Bob’s leadership and guidance and his legacy will he long remembered in Houston."