The Patriots on Saturday released a statement from their senior football advisor, Floyd Reese, on the death of Steve McNair. Reese was the general manager of the Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans franchise from 1994-2006 and drafted McNair:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of today's tragic news regarding the death of Steve McNair. He was a player who I admired a great deal. He was a tremendous leader and an absolute warrior. He felt like it was his responsibility to lead by working hard every day, no matter what. I don't think there was a player who played with him or against him that didn't look up to him and respect him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, his friends and the many teammates who loved and admired him."

Follow the ongoing story of McNair's death here.