Michigan legend Greg Harden passed away today due to complications from surgery, leaving behind a 24-year legacy. Harden was 75. He possessed the unique ability to unlock the hidden talents of athletes. The news has left everyone in a state of shock and sadness. The tributes aren’t limited to the Michigan community, as Harden left an imprint on the whole world of college football.

Courtney Morgan, a key part of Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer’s staff, also joined the football community to mourn Greg Harden’s death. Morgan, who is Crimson Tide’s General Manager, Football Support Staff, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, mentioning how much Harden’s death affected him. “R.I.P Greg Harden. Your advice and words will live with me forever. You were a huge part of me and Charles Drakes transition from Los Angeles to Ann Arbor at 17yrs old. You constantly reminded us that the power is already in you and always look within. Don’t do anything before you face the man in the mirror. Rest well”.

Greg Harden has been an important part of Courtney Morgan’s career. The two spent many years together at Michigan before Morgan was hired by Kalen DeBoer at Washington in the same role Harden performed throughout his career. Morgan remembered Greg Harden’s contribution in getting him and NFL player Charles Drake from LA to Michigan. Looking at the tributes today, Morgan was not the only person who had Harden as a mentor and a friend throughout their journey.

In his role as an administrator and mental health coach since 1986, Greg Harden also worked for people’s mental well-being. Many famous Michigan athletes, including Desmond Howard, Jalen Rose, J.J. McCarthy and Tom Brady, remembered Greg Harden for his work with them and gave him heart-wrenching tributes. Even renowned Olympic player Michael Phelps shared his sadness about Greg’s demise, as he was also one of his mentors while he was training at the university.

Football world whirled on Greg Harden’s Demise

“I’m heartbroken.” said former quarterback of Michigan and NFL legend Tom Brady while giving his heartfelt tribute to Greg Harden.  Greg Harden was the reason behind Brady’s development as he rose through the ranks at Michigan. His death felt like a personal loss to Tom as he wrote a note for him on X, saying, “I’m so sad to hear the news of Greg’s passing. I’m heartbroken as he was a dear friend and mentor.” 

Former Michigan and now Vikings star quarterback J.J. McCarthy also shared a deeply felt tribute to GregHarden, saying, “You gave me the courage and belief as we fought hand-in-hand against the demons I’ve spent my entire life-fighting.”. McCarthy also called him the “OG”, which shows how much he idolized him. Losing Greg Harden is a major setback for the whole football community. But his words and wisdom will surely continue within everyone.