Larry Coyer, former Broncos defensive coordinator, dead at 79 from 'sudden illness'

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Former Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Larry Coyer, who helped lead the team to the 2006 AFC championship, died from "a sudden illness," his family confirmed in a statement Friday.

Coyer, who spent nearly 50 years coaching at both the collegiate or professional level, was 79. 

Broncos defensive coordinator Larry Coyer paces the field as players stretch out. (Cyrus McCrimmon/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

"It is with a heavy heart that we announce Larry has passed away today after a sudden illness," the Coyer family wrote, via the Broncos' website.

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"Larry was a well-loved man by many, and we are processing this loss."

The Broncos also released a statement on social media.

"We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former Broncos DC Larry Coyer. A widely respected coach with a distinguished & remarkable 50+year career, Larry was a key part of four Broncos playoff teams & their ‘05 AFC Championship Game berth.

Broncos linebacker coach Larry Coyer before a game against the Seattle Seahawks in Seattle.  (Craig F. Walker/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

"Our hearts go out to the Coyer family."

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Coyer spent seven seasons with the Broncos, first joining the organization as a linebackers coach in 2000. In 2002, he was promoted to defensive coordinator and served in that role another four seasons. 

The Broncos made four playoff appearances during Coyer’s tenure that included an AFC championship game, which ended in a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

Defensive coordinator Larry Coyer of the Denver Broncos leads the defense