It was reported earlier today that Steve Kragthorpe was abruptly stepping down as Texas A&M’s wide receivers coach. Now, the school has confirmed the resignation.
In a statement issued by the school, Kragthorpe said unspecified family medical issues -- we have been told his wife is battling multiple sclerosis -- led to his decision less than two weeks before the start of summer camp.
“My family is dealing with some medical issues and they need me at home,” Kragthorpe said. “The timing could not be helped and I hate to leave Coach Sherman and the guys at this time.”
Head coach Mike Sherman applauded his now-former assistant for putting his family ahead of football.
“Ultimately, he felt his wife Cynthia, and his three boys, required his undivided attention and I respect him for that,” Sherman said in his own statement. “Steve is not only an excellent coach, but he is an even better person. We will keep him and his family in our prayers.”
Fortunately for Sherman and his receivers, the school has already filled the position with a quality replacement.
Former Stanford standout receiver Troy Walters has been hired to replace Kragthorpe, effective immediately. Walters, the 1999 Biletnikoff Award winner, played eight seasons in the NFL and was Indiana State’s offensive coordinator in 2009.