OSHKOSH, Wis.
Police have recovered the body of Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin’s son from an icy Wisconsin river and said Tuesday that they were trying to figure out how he died.
Michael T. Philbin, 21, disappeared early Sunday and was reported missing that night. His body was recovered from the Fox River by divers on Monday, but Oshkosh Police Chief Scott Greuel waited a day to release the name out of respect for the family’s privacy.
News of Philbin’s death comes as the Packers prepare to host the New York Giants in an NFC playoff game Sunday. The team canceled players’ media availability Monday shortly before Philbin’s body was found. Packers general manager Ted Thompson issued a statement Tuesday saying the team’s thoughts and prayers were with the family.
It was unclear whether Joe Philbin will continue to work with the team this week. Coach Mike McCarthy told reporters Monday that he has a contingency plan if Philbin needs time off but didn’t elaborate. Team spokesman Aaron Popkey declined further comment Tuesday.
Philbin disappeared after a night out with friends near the University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh campus about 50 miles south of Green Bay. Greuel said no foul play is suspected and investigators were still working to determine if alcohol was a factor.
An autopsy was scheduled for Tuesday in Madison.
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