Former Patriots executive and scout Bobby Grier passed away at age 82, the team announced. (New England Patriots photo)

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots Monday announced the passing of former assistant coach and team executive Bobby Grier at the age of 82.

Grier was an offensive backfield coach for the Patriots, joining the organization in 1982, but also was a scout, then became the director of pro scouting, then director of player personnel while Bill Parcells was the coach and was the Patriots vice president of player personnel when Pete Carroll was the head coach and one year with Bill Belichick, from 1997-2000.

It is said that Grier was involved in the scouting and drafting of Tom Brady in the 2000 draft, the first with Belichick as the head coach.

“Bobby Grier was a man of tremendous integrity,” Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in a statement. He broke barriers and built bridges, and his legacy will forever be part of our franchise’s history. We are forever grateful for his years of service and the impact he had on so many people within our organization and across the NFL. My thoughts are with his family and all who are mourning his loss.”

Grier is the father of current Dolphins GM Chris Grier, as well as former NHL player and current San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier. After leaving the Patriots when Belichick gained more control, Grier was with the Houston Texans for 16 years and then was a consultant for his son with the Dolphins in 2017.