Packers' Quarless reveals death of baby daughter was reason behind camp absence

Green Bay Packers tight end Andrew Quarless fought back tears Monday while explaining that his absence from the start of training camp stemmed from the loss of his daughter, who died at birth.

Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters last week that Quarless was dealing with "an extremely difficult family situation and he's where he needs to be." Quarless rejoined the team Saturday after missing the first two days of practice.

Quarless was arrested July 4 for discharging a firearm in public and could face discipline from the NFL as a result. But that pales in comparison to what he and his family are going through right now.

"I was looking a little bit of happiness in my daughter. ... You just can't take life for granted," Quarless said, according to Weston Hodkiewicz of the Green Bay Press Gazette.

"Life is serious. I'm a role model to a lot of kids. I was able to have my first (football) camp this year. A lot of things have been able to help me mentally. But you can't take things for granted and I don't take this organization for granted and I don't take my position for granted. I'm just really, really thankful. That's the main word I can really use is thankful for this group of guys."