Former Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi was known for his intensity on the field during his tenure here in New England and despite a career in the media very little has changed.
 Bruschi was known as an intense player during his career in New England. (FILE:USPresswire) |
During a visit last Friday as part of alumni weekend at the University of Arizona, Bruschi spoke to the players and delivered a speech that apparently hit home with the same force he delivered to opponents as a member of the Patriots.
According to an article in the Tucson Citizen Bruschi got fired up during his address to the players, leaving many of them blown away by what they had just heard.
"It was like you were sitting in the middle of a movie and someone is doing that amazing pregame speech that is scripted. But, yeah, he came in there with nothing scripted. He just came in," Arizona linebacker Jake Fischer told the newspaper.
"At first, he was getting himself riled up just because he was talking about how he used to play here and how he used to be so good, but no one gave him respect and he was always fighting for that respect, always trying to prove people wrong."
Bruschi knows exactly what it's like to have to overcome the doubters. He was a defensive tackle at Arizona and was considered by many critics to be "too small" and some questioned how good of an NFL player he'd be.
Fortunately the former 3rd round pick moved over to linebacker and went on to be a great player in New England and came away with three Super Bowl rings as well as being part of an undefeated regular season.
Even though his career is over, clearly the fire is still there and he did a great job in making sure the players who were there walked away realizing what it takes to be winners.
"It was awesome," Fischer said. "Awesome. He was at the top of his lungs. You look around and you could tell by the look in some of the guys' eyes, they were like 'Holy, sh-.'"
Sounds like he got his message across.
More News Headlines:
Key Questions Remain After Patriots Mini Camp: Little Margin For Error at Several Positions
By: Ian LogueReviewing Patriots minicamp, key questions remain for 2026 concerning the offensive line, linebacker, receiver depth, tight end, and Drake Maye's role.
Patriots News 06-14, Patriots Wrap Up Spring Workouts
By: Steve BalestrieriPatriots wrap up spring workouts, looking ahead to training camp and the 2026 season. Drake Maye's development, A.J. Brown & Romeo Doubs boost offense.
Patriots Rookie Lomu Reveals “Weird” First Days at Right Tackle
By: Ian LoguePatriots rookie Caleb Lomu details his 'weird' initial adjustment to right tackle after college, now feeling natural with veteran Morgan Moses' help.
Vrabel’s Goal For Christian Barmore in 2026: “Being able to finish”
By: Ian LogueVrabel challenges Christian Barmore to 'finish' plays and increase sacks in 2026. His season management is also detailed.
MORSE: Day 3 of Patriots Mini-Camp
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots mini-camp Day 3, Drake Maye's red zone work, a late hit, and defensive dominance highlighted a spirited practice.