Although the Patriots don't hang on to players past their prime, they don't just cut their best, loyal players, because they are a class organization. Lots of players don't know it's time to hang them up and it can get uncomfortable, but I can't recall any major veteran who was a loyal team player leaving on really bad terms. Of course it's how you look at it, but I look at Brown and Bruschi as the worst and they weren't embarassed by the team.
Brown was cut and took a pay cut, but I don't recall him playing much after the team seems to have thought he was done. Obviously, loved and on good terms.
Bruschi kept his salary reasonable and probably played a year more than he should. I hear they had a talk with him and saved a cut, or benching. Though they had zero for LBs back then, you can't find a diamond in the rough on the bench and Bruschi was cooked.
McGinest lost a step and just wasn't the same. He thought he was and didn't appreciate being shuffled off to the Browns. Looking back, he might realize that was a golden parachute, starter money for a jag, for his leadership.
I put Vrabel in the same category. I think he had a bad back. Probably extended his career with Pioli.
Milloy's agent decided to play hardball after starting to negotiate,as the pressure mounted on Belichick. Fold? lol BB don't play that, especially after he'd more than replaced him.
Law shot his way out of town and had some more productive years. more power to him. BB doesn't pay all pro money to guys past their prime with foot injuries. Props to Law for playing well with the foot. BB would do it again.
Long time players who left on a bad note? Not a coincidence IMO.
Mankins was a great player, who squeezed every nickel out in contentious negotiations. Called the owner a liar. When time neared for the gold watch, worst team in the league and top trade value. Reap what you sow, Logan.
I'm a big Seymour fan, but compared to Wilfork, he made the owner kiss his ass to accept a huge contract. When the time for another came, shuffle off to Oakland and a 1st rounder for us.
Maybe I'm wrong, but guys who do more than play, who lead and help the team on the cap get appreciated. Just a business guys get the business.
It's not about discounts or anything, it's about showing class despite rough negotiations.