Allen Aldridge, former Broncos and Lions linebacker, has died at the age of 52, according to NBC Sports.

Aldridge, also known as Coach Aldridge at George Bush High School, was described as a “gentle giant from a family with deep roots in the NFL and Houston sports community,” according to the Fort Bend Independent School District.

He graduated from Willowridge High School and then attended the University of Houston. Aldridge graduated from college in 1993 and was drafted by the Broncos in the second round the following year, NBC Sports reports.

After his time in the NFL, Coach Aldridge was determined to turn his players into young men who carried themselves with integrity and pride. He sometimes even showed his students his Super Bowl ring to demonstrate to them that nothing was impossible, Fort Bend ISD said in a press release.

He coached the George Bush Broncos for 20 years and had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of young men and women.

“He lived by the motto he learned as an FBISD student at Willowridge High School, which was to embody class and character in all aspects of his life. His presence and influence as a servant leader, mentor and teacher was felt by all at George Bush High and his positive attitude was evident among players, coaches and colleagues as he instructed them to always coach them,” Fort Bend ISD said in the press release. “We extend our deepest condolences to the Aldridge family, as well as the players, students, fellow coaches and all who knew and loved him, and wish them sincere comfort and strength.”