- Joined
- Sep 16, 2004
- Messages
- 12,450
- Reaction score
- 13,170
I'm sure there is a thread out there that already discusses players' numbers we deem worthy of retirement, but since Big Willie has made this this topic current again, let's give it a go. For the sake of discussion, I'm only including players that have been a part of this Super Bowl run. (And I'm disregarding any Patriots' policies about number retirement)
On Offense, only two players are worthy. Brady is a lock, and Troy Brown would be my sentimental choice. Troy may not have the stats, but his longevity and ultimate team-first sacrifices are qualities that should be looked up to and honored.
On defense, three players are easy choices, McGinest, Seymour, and Bruschi...and two players are on the bubble, Vrabel and Harrison. Willie and Teddy get the nod because of longevity, playmaking, and leadership. Big Sey's inclusion is absolute with no discussion necessary. The day he cracked the starting lineup is the day the Pats D became dominant. Vrabel's inclusion may be worthy but it is difficult to ignore the fact that he began his career with another team. Rodney's talent is certainly worthy, but the fact that he only was part of two SBs and most of his career was spent in San Diego will keep him from being honored.
Special Teams...Adam V deserves his number retired because if history remembers only one thing about this great Pats run, it will be how a clutch kicker delivered for the Pats time after time. Like it or not, Adam's kicks are the signature plays for this dynasty.
On Offense, only two players are worthy. Brady is a lock, and Troy Brown would be my sentimental choice. Troy may not have the stats, but his longevity and ultimate team-first sacrifices are qualities that should be looked up to and honored.
On defense, three players are easy choices, McGinest, Seymour, and Bruschi...and two players are on the bubble, Vrabel and Harrison. Willie and Teddy get the nod because of longevity, playmaking, and leadership. Big Sey's inclusion is absolute with no discussion necessary. The day he cracked the starting lineup is the day the Pats D became dominant. Vrabel's inclusion may be worthy but it is difficult to ignore the fact that he began his career with another team. Rodney's talent is certainly worthy, but the fact that he only was part of two SBs and most of his career was spent in San Diego will keep him from being honored.
Special Teams...Adam V deserves his number retired because if history remembers only one thing about this great Pats run, it will be how a clutch kicker delivered for the Pats time after time. Like it or not, Adam's kicks are the signature plays for this dynasty.
Last edited: