Today In Patriots History May 22: Happy 39th birthday to Julian Edelman

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Julian Edelman

Sometimes trading down works better than one could have possibly hoped for.

On April 26, 2009 the Patriots traded their third round pick (3.73) to Jacksonville, for a Jaguars seventh round pick (7.232) and a second round pick in the following year's draft (2010 2.44)

Jacksonville drafted Derex Cox, a solid but not spectacular corner who had a five-year NFL career.

The Patriots drafted a quarterback from Kent State that they planned on transitioning to another position with the seventh: Julian Edelman.

The following year the Pats drafted Rob Gronkowski with that second round pick.

​

Happy 39th birthday to Julian Edelman
Born May 22, 1986 in Redwood City, California
Patriot WR/PR/DB, 2009-2020; uniform #11
Pats 7th round (232nd overall) selection of the 2009 draft, from Kent State

Julian Edelman Makes Ridiculous Catch! | Patriots vs. Falcons | Super Bowl LI Highlights
1:31 Highlight Play, via the NFL
​

- Holds the career postseason franchise record for receptions with 115, which ranks second-most in NFL history (behind only Jerry Rice).
- Holds the career postseason franchise record for most games with 100+ yards receiving with six; (also second-most in NFL History behind Rice).
- Caught the winning touchdown in Super Bowl 49 with 2:06 to play.
- MVP of Super Bowl 52 vs the Rams; one of just seven wide receivers to win that award.
- Three-time Super Bowl champion has been in 19 playoff games (13-6 record).
- Holds NFL postseason record for longest pass completion by a non-QB (51 yard TD to Danny Amendola vs Baltimore in AFC Divisional game, Jan 10, 2015).
- Ranks second in NFL history with 1,442 career postseason yards receiving.
- Patriots All-Decade Team of the 2000s at both WR and PR.
- Holds the franchise record for longest punt return (94 yards).
- Holds the career franchise record with four punt return touchdowns.
- Holds the career franchise record in punt return average (minimum 75) at 11.2 yards per return.
- Holds the career franchise record for most rushing attempts by a WR with 58.
- Holds the career franchise record for most rushing yards by a WR with 413.
- Holds the franchise record for longest rush by a WR (47 yards vs Colts in 2012).
- Is one of only two players in club history with multiple 100+ catches in a single season.
- Is one of only three players in club history with consecutive seasons of 90+ receptions.
- Is one of only six players in club history with multiple seasons of 1,000+ yards receiving (3rd, with three).
- Ranks 2nd in team history with 620 receptions.
- Ranks 4th in team history with 6,822 receiving yards.
- Ranks 9th in team history with 36 receiving touchdowns.
- Ranks third in team history with 177 punt returns.
- Ranks third in team history with 1,986 punt return yards.
- (15) regular season 100-yard receiving games, plus (6) postseason 100-yard games.
- (8) regular season 10-reception games, plus three postseason 10-reception games.
- 6-6 for 128 yards and one TD passing, for 21.3 ypa and a perfect 158.3 passer rating (plus a 51-yard TD in the playoffs).

Julian Edelman: Unbreakable
17:42 Highlight Video

Games With Names

Hosted by former Super Bowl MVP Julian Edelman, Games with Names is a podcast on the search to find the greatest games of all time. From the infamous to the unforgettable, we dive back into the classic matchups and eras across all of sports history. Joined by the players, coaches, and celebrity...

www.youtube.com

Julian Edelman Released by the Patriots, Another Legend Moves On | PatsFans.com

Edelman's willingness to do the dirty work in the middle of the field finally took a toll on the converted QB turned wide receiver.

www.patsfans.com

Belichick Backed Him into a Corner and Julian Edelman Rose to the Challenge

Julian Edelman revealed in his book, Relentless, that Bill Belichick backed him into a corner and it was up to Edelman to rise to the challenge.

www.patsfans.com

After Incredible Patriots Journey, Edelman's Tenacity Finally Sees Him Get His Due

Not a lot of New England Patriots players have had the career Julian Edelman has had, and he's about to be rewarded for it.

www.patsfans.com

PATRIOTS NEWS Thread 'Edelnuts in Pats HoF'

May 5, 2025

• Brotherblues
• Replies: 77
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Celebrating Edelman | The Patriots Hall of Fame

www.patriotshalloffame.com

Julian Edelman Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Julian Edelman Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

 

[signbabybrady]

Clutchest of the clutch.

Send him to Canton.

 

[The Gr8est]

So……..


Comeback at 39?

 

[Clonamery]

So……..


Comeback at 39?

Not with 1 knee.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Don Webb​

In memory of Don Webb, who would have turned 86 today
Born May 22, 1939 in Jefferson City, Missouri
Died July 25, 2024 at the age of 85 in Jefferson City
Patriot cornerback/free safety, 1961-1971; uniform #48 ('61), #42
Pats 24th round (186th overall) selection of the 1961 draft, from Iowa State
Pats résumé: 10 seasons, 134 games (99 starts); 21 interceptions; AFL All-Star, 1969; Pats All-1960s Team

Donald Wayne 'Spider' Webb made an immediate impact, intercepting five passes as a rookie. In a 41-0 shutout over the Chargers he scored two touchdowns: one on a blocked punt return, and another on a 31-yard pick-six. Webb then unfortunately missed the entire 1963 campaign due to a knee injury that occurred just prior to the start of the season. Despite sports medicine and surgery being what it was at the time compared to now, Webb bounced right back, playing in every game of the 1964 season, with six interceptions.

In '67 he transitioned from starting left corner to free safety, and was an All-Star in 1969. Overall Don Webb played in 134 games for the Patriots, with 21 interceptions. Those 21 picks were third most in team history for many years, and even now still ranks as 13th best in franchise history. In addition the 134 games played is the 15th most in team history for a defensive player and 7th most for a defensive back, despite playing in an era of 14-game seasons. Don Webb is also a member of the Patriots All-Decade Team for the 1960s at safety.


Feb 5, 2017:

Jefferson City man reminisces on pro-football career | Fulton Sun

As the New England Patriots prepare to play in today's Super Bowl game, a Jefferson City man remembers his time with the team fondly.

www.fultonsun.com

Going into the 2016 season, Webb still ranked 11th in team history with 21 interceptions, according to Patriots records.​

Webb remembers many of the players on those teams, including Nick Buoniconti, an all-league linebacker who has been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.​

"They were tough guys," he said. "My foot speed was probably the secret to my longevity. I was the fastest guy on the team."​

Webb used the money he earned as a player to help his family back in Jefferson City. ...​

Donald Wayne Webb - Trimble Funeral Homes

Donald Wayne “Don” Webb, 85, of Jefferson City, passed away Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Oak Tree Villas.He was born on May 22, 1939, in Jefferson City, the son of Bertha Webb Brown and Glover Brown.He was united in marriage on June 5, 1965, in Jefferson City to Joyce Logan who survives at the...

trimblefunerals.com

Don attended Washington Elementary School, Jefferson City High School, and Iowa State University in Ames Iowa.​

Don was listed on the House on Hobo Hill, a history of the Jefferson City Public Schools, as one of the first Negroes to attend Jefferson City High School after integration and he and friend Mel West were the first Black players for the Jays.​

He attended Iowa State University and was a member of their well known 1959 "Dirty Thirty" Team.​

Don joined the Boston Patriots of the American Football League (AFL) later known as the New England Patriots and played for the Patriots for eleven seasons. He was an AFL All-Star selection in 1969 and was selected to the Patriots All-1960’s Decade (AFL) Team.​

After being retired from football for more than 50 years, he continued to receive trading cards in the mail to be autographed.​

After retiring from football, he worked for the Secretary of States Office as a Records Analyst.​

12/17/1961 Boston Patriots at San Diego Chargers highlights, American Football League Week 15
1:55 Highlight Video
​

This is a short video of highlights from the Dec. 17, 1961 American Football League game between the Boston Patriots and the Chargers in San Diego, won by the Patriots, 41-0.
It is from the 1961 Patriots highlight film, narrated by Bob Gallagher and Patriots coach Mike Holovak.
The Patriots finished out a fine 9-4-1 campaign, good for second in the AFL East, with this rout at Balboa Stadium.
Don Webb, who seemed to make an interception every game, took one back 31 yards for a score, and he also ran a blocked punt in from 20 yards out.
Jim Colclough caught a touchdown and made another outstanding grab, Gino Cappelletti (who should be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame) had a receiving TD, and Billy Lott rushed 5 yards for a score.

Don Webb Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Checkout the latest stats for Don Webb. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Don Webb Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Don Webb Transactions

Don Webb (American football) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

So……..


Comeback at 39?

Not with 1 knee.

With only one knee Jules still would have been more productive in 2024 than Polk and Baker combined.

 

[PWRxWLF]

Happy Bday Jules! Thanks for all the memories!!!

 

[Mike the Brit]

Great tribute to a great Patriot. Thank you, @jmt57 !

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Corey Croom​

Happy 54th birthday to Corey Croom
Born May 22, 1971 in Sandusky, Ohio
Patriot running back/special teamer, 1993-1995; uniform #26
Signed as an undrafted rookie free agent on May 3, 1993
Pats résumé: three seasons, 43 games (2 starts); 352 yards from scrimmage, one touchdown

I didn't care for them at first, but in retrospect those blue tops were pretty sweet.​

The Patriots signed Corey Croom as an undrafted rookie in 1993 out of Ball State. He was initially cut at the end of training camp and signed to the practice squad, then promoted to the regular roster on September 19. Croom was primarily a special teamer, also gaining 293 yards from scrimmage with one TD as a backup to Leonard Russell.


In '94 Croom led the Pats in rushing in the preseason (33 carries, 159 yards, 4.8 ypc), but he did not get a single touch that whole year - despite the subpar production at RB from Marion Butts and Leroy Thompson. Bill Parcells made a surprise move in the postseason, naming Croom the starter over Butts in the wild card game. In that Pats-Browns game Croom averaged an acceptable 3.9 yards per carry on his nine rushing attempts. Parcells leaned on the arm of Drew Bledsoe (52 dropbacks) while ignoring the run (16 rushing attempts), with not-so-unexpected results. Bledsoe went 21-50 with one TD and three interceptions, plus multiple throwaways to avoid an imminent sack. Bill Belichick's Browns won 20-13 in what was the last playoff win by Cleveland for 26 years, prior to their 48-37 2020 postseason victory at Pittsburgh.

Here’s how Browns beat Patriots in 1994 playoffs, their last playoff win: Browns Flashback

The Browns' last playoff came at ehe end of the 1994 season with Bill Belichick as coach of the Browns and Bill Parcells leading the Patriots.

www.cleveland.com

While Corey Croom did not get on the field on offense that year, he did play in every game on special teams in '94, and in '95 he appeared in 13 games, getting his hands on the ball in three of those games as a backup to Curtis Martin. Croom finished with 352 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown over three seasons with the Pats. He later signed with Philly but did not make their roster.


Jan 31, 2015:

Once a Patriot, always a Patriot

By DAN ANGELO

sanduskyregister.com

“I think of the turnaround,” said Croom. “Before we got there, they weren’t one of the better teams in the league. I came there with coach (Bill) Parcells and he really started the turnaround with quality players and quality coaches.”​

Croom signed as an undrafted free agent in 1993 after rushing for 3,500 yards in three season at Sandusky and a record-setting career at Ball State University. ....​

Croom, who has been coaching Sandusky football players since 1999, now watches the game with a vantage point the average fan never sees.​

“I really watch and put myself in certain situations as a player and as a coach,” he said. “I think of the different ways to execute plays and I applaud the players when they do certain things to take advantage of a defense.​

“For instance, a couple of weeks ago, the Patriots played Baltimore and they were doing things with different formations. It was smart because they were having problems getting off the ball and with their spacing, but they found a wrinkle they could use and it was highly successful.”​

Croom now watches the Patriots now as a fan and will be rooting for them in Super Bowl XLIX.​

“I’m still a fan and take price in being part of that organization,” he said. “I attribute a lot of their success to being coached extremely well and getting the right players into the system. A lot of them aren’t superstars or big money guys, but they know how to get in and work the system and they know how to execute.”​

Corey Croom Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Corey Croom Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Corey Croom Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Corey Croom Transactions

Corey Croom - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Pape]

Top 5 Patriot player of all time...

Love Jules, Happy he was elected to the Patriots Hall of Fame this year... He deserved earned it

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Sergio Brown​

Happy 37th birthday to Sergio Brown
Born May 22, 1988 in Maywood, Illinois
Patriot safety, 2010-2011; uniform #38 (2010) and #31 (2011)
Signed as an undrafted rookie free agent on April 25, 2010
Pats résumé: two seasons, 26 games (3 starts); one pick, one fumble recovery; four playoff games


The Pats signed Sergio Brown as an undrafted rookie out of Notre Dame in 2010. He was signed to the practice squad after being waived during final cuts. Six weeks later Brown was promoted to the active roster and immediately forced to fill in, due to the somewhat unexpected release of both Brandon Meriweather and James Sanders at safety. Not surprisingly he was in over his head, thrust into that position too soon.


Brown was let go during final roster cuts prior to the start of the 2012 season; in his two seasons with the Pats he appeared in 26 games with three starts, one pick and one fumble recovery. Segio played in 94 games over seven NFL seasons with the Patriots, Colts, Bills and Jaguars.


He is perhaps most well known for being 'thrown out of the club' by Gronk after he became an Indianapolis Colt.

Sergio Brown Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Sergio Brown Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Sergio Brown

Sergio Brown Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Sergio Brown contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Career Earnings: $6,230,959

Sergio Brown - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
Sergio Brown​

Happy 37th birthday to Sergio Brown
Born May 22, 1988 in Maywood, Illinois
Patriot safety, 2010-2011; uniform #38 (2010) and #31 (2011)
Signed as an undrafted rookie free agent on April 25, 2010
Pats résumé: two seasons, 26 games (3 starts); one pick, one fumble recovery; four playoff games


The Pats signed Sergio Brown as an undrafted rookie out of Notre Dame in 2010. He was signed to the practice squad after being waived during final cuts. Six weeks later Brown was promoted to the active roster and immediately forced to fill in, due to the somewhat unexpected release of both Brandon Meriweather and James Sanders at safety. Not surprisingly he was in over his head, thrust into that position too soon.


Brown was let go during final roster cuts prior to the start of the 2012 season; in his two seasons with the Pats he appeared in 26 games with three starts, one pick and one fumble recovery. Segio played in 94 games over seven NFL seasons with the Patriots, Colts, Bills and Jaguars.


He is perhaps most well known for being 'thrown out of the club' by Gronk after he became an Indianapolis Colt.

Sergio Brown Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Sergio Brown Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Sergio Brown

Sergio Brown Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Sergio Brown contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Career Earnings: $6,230,959

Sergio Brown - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Wasn't he the guy Gronk "threw out of the nightclub"? lol


edit... you mentioned that... think its time for a little remedial work on my reading comprehension

 

[The Gr8est]

With only one knee Jules still would have been more productive in 2024 than Polk and Baker combined.

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
Don Webb​

In memory of Don Webb, who would have turned 86 today
Born May 22, 1939 in Jefferson City, Missouri
Died July 25, 2024 at the age of 85 in Jefferson City
Patriot cornerback/free safety, 1961-1971; uniform #48 ('61), #42
Pats 24th round (186th overall) selection of the 1961 draft, from Iowa State
Pats résumé: 10 seasons, 134 games (99 starts); 21 interceptions; AFL All-Star, 1969; Pats All-1960s Team

Donald Wayne 'Spider' Webb made an immediate impact, intercepting five passes as a rookie. In a 41-0 shutout over the Chargers he scored two touchdowns: one on a blocked punt return, and another on a 31-yard pick-six. Webb then unfortunately missed the entire 1963 campaign due to a knee injury that occurred just prior to the start of the season. Despite sports medicine and surgery being what it was at the time compared to now, Webb bounced right back, playing in every game of the 1964 season, with six interceptions.

In '67 he transitioned from starting left corner to free safety, and was an All-Star in 1969. Overall Don Webb played in 134 games for the Patriots, with 21 interceptions. Those 21 picks were third most in team history for many years, and even now still ranks as 13th best in franchise history. In addition the 134 games played is the 15th most in team history for a defensive player and 7th most for a defensive back, despite playing in an era of 14-game seasons. Don Webb is also a member of the Patriots All-Decade Team for the 1960s at safety.


Feb 5, 2017:

Jefferson City man reminisces on pro-football career | Fulton Sun

As the New England Patriots prepare to play in today's Super Bowl game, a Jefferson City man remembers his time with the team fondly.

www.fultonsun.com

Going into the 2016 season, Webb still ranked 11th in team history with 21 interceptions, according to Patriots records.​

Webb remembers many of the players on those teams, including Nick Buoniconti, an all-league linebacker who has been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.​

"They were tough guys," he said. "My foot speed was probably the secret to my longevity. I was the fastest guy on the team."​

Webb used the money he earned as a player to help his family back in Jefferson City. ...​

Donald Wayne Webb - Trimble Funeral Homes

Donald Wayne “Don” Webb, 85, of Jefferson City, passed away Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Oak Tree Villas.He was born on May 22, 1939, in Jefferson City, the son of Bertha Webb Brown and Glover Brown.He was united in marriage on June 5, 1965, in Jefferson City to Joyce Logan who survives at the...

trimblefunerals.com

Don attended Washington Elementary School, Jefferson City High School, and Iowa State University in Ames Iowa.​

Don was listed on the House on Hobo Hill, a history of the Jefferson City Public Schools, as one of the first Negroes to attend Jefferson City High School after integration and he and friend Mel West were the first Black players for the Jays.​

He attended Iowa State University and was a member of their well known 1959 "Dirty Thirty" Team.​

Don joined the Boston Patriots of the American Football League (AFL) later known as the New England Patriots and played for the Patriots for eleven seasons. He was an AFL All-Star selection in 1969 and was selected to the Patriots All-1960’s Decade (AFL) Team.​

After being retired from football for more than 50 years, he continued to receive trading cards in the mail to be autographed.​

After retiring from football, he worked for the Secretary of States Office as a Records Analyst.​

12/17/1961 Boston Patriots at San Diego Chargers highlights, American Football League Week 15
1:55 Highlight Video
​

This is a short video of highlights from the Dec. 17, 1961 American Football League game between the Boston Patriots and the Chargers in San Diego, won by the Patriots, 41-0.
It is from the 1961 Patriots highlight film, narrated by Bob Gallagher and Patriots coach Mike Holovak.
The Patriots finished out a fine 9-4-1 campaign, good for second in the AFL East, with this rout at Balboa Stadium.
Don Webb, who seemed to make an interception every game, took one back 31 yards for a score, and he also ran a blocked punt in from 20 yards out.
Jim Colclough caught a touchdown and made another outstanding grab, Gino Cappelletti (who should be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame) had a receiving TD, and Billy Lott rushed 5 yards for a score.

Don Webb Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Checkout the latest stats for Don Webb. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Don Webb Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Don Webb Transactions

Don Webb (American football) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

​

Absolutely love the stripe on the pants... it was badass, and was a great touch to the new uniforms in '93... too bad they did away with it a year later...

 

[maust]

Happy Bday Edelnuts! Let's get this party started!!!
Where's his boy Yo Soy Fiesta Gronk at?

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Alex Austin​

Happy 24th birthday to Alex Austin
Born May 22, 2001 in Long Beach, California
Patriot cornerback, 2023-; uniform #28
Signed as a free agent on November 2, 2023
Pats résumé: two seasons, 14 games (4 starts); one interception, seven passes defensed


2023:
Five games played, one start
211 snaps on defense, five on special teams

2024:
Nine games played, three starts
On injured reserve from Sept 28 to Nov 18
234 snaps on defense, 78 on special teams


Dec 1, 2024:

Young Patriots cornerback shows he belongs in NFL

Alex Austin missed eight games with an injury. On Sunday, he made an impact on the Patriots defense and showed he belongs

www.masslive.com

March 5, 2025:

Cornerback returns to Patriots on one-year deal

The New England Patriots re-signed ERFA cornerback Alex Austin to a one-year deal on Wednesday.

985thesportshub.com

Allow Me to Introduce Myself | Alex Austin -- Patriots.com
1:19 Video
Patriots cornerback Alex Austin introduces himself and talks about growing up in California.
Austin speaks to his life-long love of football and shares his favorite restaurant.


2024 Patriots Media Guide
+ Originally drafted by Buffalo in the seventh round (252nd overall) of the 2023 NFL draft.

College
+ Throughout his four years at Oregon State, he played in 36 games and tallied 140 tackles, 4 interceptions, 24 passes defensed, 3 fumble recoveries and 1 sack.

+ Earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention status in 2022 after starting in all 12 games and racking up 57 tackles, 2 interceptions, 10 passes defensed, a sack and a fumble recovery.

+ Named Pac-12 Defensive player of the week vs. Colorado (10/22/22) after collecting three tackles and a 42-yard interception return for a touchdown.

+ Had 9 tackles, a fumble recovery and an interception in the season opener vs. Boise State (9/3/22).

+ Started in all 13 games in 2021, tallying 47 tackles, 7 passes defensed and 2 interceptions to earn All-Pac-12 honorable mention.

+ As a redshirt freshman in 2020, he posted 29 tackles, a fumble recovery and two passes defensed in an abbreviated season. He started in five of the seven games.

Personal
+ His father, Al Austin , is a Long Beach City Councilman.

+ His mother, Daysha Austin, is a District Director for State Assembly.

Alex Austin Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Alex Austin Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Alex Austin Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Alex Austin Transactions

Alex Austin Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Alex Austin contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Alex Austin - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
The other Alex Smith​

Happy 43rd birthday to Alex Smith
Born May 22, 1982 in Denver
Patriot tight end, 2009 (offseason); uniform #80
Acquired in a trade with Tampa Bay on April 30, 2009
Pats résumé: one offseason; zero games


A third round pick from Stanford by Tampa Bay in 2005, the Pats acquired Alex Smith from the Bucs in exchange for a 2010 fifth round draft pick a few days after the 2009 draft. Smith was one of two would-be veteran pass catchers acquired in exchange for a draft pick (WR Greg Lewis from Philadelphia being the other) that did not survive final roster cuts in 2009. That was the same year several veterans were signed as free agents (Joey Galloway, Fred Taylor, Shawn Springs, Chris Baker, Leigh Bodden, Paris Lenon, Brandon McGowan, Tully Banta-Cain), with very mixed to mediocre-at-best results.


April 30, 2009:

Patriots acquire TE Smith from Buccaneers

The Patriots acquire veteran tight end Alex Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a trade today.

www.boston.com

Patriots add Alex Smith to tight ends table

The Patriots added to an already stacked position by acquiring Tampa Bay tight end Alex Smith yesterday for an undisclosed 2010 draft pick. The 6-foot-4, 258-pound Smith, who is a combination pass-catching and blocking tight end, joins…

www.bostonherald.com

A tight situation gets even tighter for Patriots

With a trade with Tampa Bay for Alex Smith, the Patriots’ tight ends now number six.

www.enterprisenews.com

Smith hopes to make his own mark in New England

www.patriotledger.com

September 5, 2009:

Alex Smith released

The Patriots have released tight end Alex Smith, according to a league source. New England gave up a 2010 fifth-round pick to acquire Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Smith was slow to pick up the Patriots offense and had one catch for 3 yards during the preseason. Updated at 6:59 p.m. — —...

www.boston.com

Smith was slow to pick up the Patriots offense and had one catch for 3 yards during the preseason.​

Despite being cut by the Pats, Smith spent seven more seasons in the NFL, mostly with Cleveland. Overall he played in 124 regular season games, with 13 touchdown receptions, plus one TD in four postseason games. After retiring from pro football in 2016, he first worked as a pro scout with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2017-2021. Smith was then promoted to their assistant director of pro scouting, until being let go by the Bucs last year. In 2023 he received his MBA from Indiana University to compliment his undergraduate degree from Stanford in economics, so perhaps it was a mutual decision as he was planning to change careers. Alex is also an advocate for autism welfare.

Patriots training camp: Day 11, Aug 10, 2009:
Tight end Alex Smith fends off linebacker Adalius Thomas during Sunday's lone practice at Gillette Stadium.​

LinkedIn -- Alex Smith

Alex Smith Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Alex Smith Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Alex Smith Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Alex Smith Transactions

Alex Smith (tight end) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Other pro football players born on this date with New England area connections:

- George Sergienko (May 22, 1918 - Dec 4, 1993)
Born and raised in Chicopee; Chicopee High School; American International College (Springfield)
The western Mass native played in the NFL for four seasons, including as left tackle for the 1945 Boston Yanks.

- Tony Holm (May 22, 1908 - July 15, 1978)
Old defunct New England NFL franchise
Alabama grad played for four seasons in the thirties, including one in the backfield for the Providence Steam Roller.

- Frank Santora (May 22, 1926 - Aug 13, 1997)
Old defunct New England NFL franchise
Another old timer, Santora was a quarterback for the 1944 Boston Yanks.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Raymond Clayborn​

May 22, 2017:
Raymond Clayborn is elected into the Patriots Hall of Fame

Raymond Clayborn Elected Into Patriots Hall of Fame | The Patriots Hall of Fame

www.patriotshalloffame.com

The New England Patriots announced today that cornerback Raymond Clayborn has been voted by fans as the 26th person to be inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame.​

Clayborn was a three-time Pro Bowl player (1983, 1985, 1986) during his 13-year Patriots career that extended from 1977 through 1989. He was drafted by the Patriots in the first round (16th overall) out of Texas in 1977 and quickly established himself as one of the game’s best cornerbacks, as well as a superb kickoff returner. He set a franchise record with 36 career interceptions, a record which Ty Law tied in 2004 and remains today, 28 years after Clayborn finished his Patriots career. His 555 interception return yards rank second in franchise history to Law’s 583 return yards. Clayborn also returned 57 kickoffs for 1,538 yards and three touchdowns. As a rookie in 1977, he returned 28 kickoffs for 869 yards and led the NFL with a 31.0-yard return average and returned three kicks for touchdowns, both of which remain franchise records. He is one of just 20 NFL players since the 1970 merger to finish a season with a better than 30.0-yard average on kickoff returns (min. 20 returns) and is the only Patriots player to accomplish the feat.​

“I was fortunate to be a season ticket holder during Raymond’s entire Patriots career,” said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. “For the first half of his career, he teamed with Michael Haynes to form one of the best corner tandems in league history. Throughout his career, Raymond was a physical, shutdown corner. One of my favorite memories was watching the 1985 team advance to the Super Bowl after Raymond helped us break the Orange Bowl curse when he stymied future Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino with a dominant performance against Pro Bowl receivers Mark Duper and Mark Clayton. Raymond had six passes defensed and an interception to help us claim our first conference title. It was the greatest upset victory in franchise history at the time and one the entire New England region celebrated. It is a well-deserved honor and I look forward to presenting him his hall of fame jacket.”​

Clayborn played a vital role in bringing the Patriots to respectability in the late 1970s and early ‘80s. During his 13 seasons in New England, he helped lead the Patriots to 10 winning seasons, including four postseason berths. In a 31-14 AFC Championship victory that propelled the Patriots to their first Super Bowl appearance, Clayborn’s performancehelped end an 18-game losing streak to the Miami Dolphins in the Orange Bowl. Clayborn was a member of the Patriots’ 1970s and 1980s all-decade teams. He also set a franchise record by playing in 161 consecutive games. This year marked the fourth consecutive year (2014-17) that Clayborn had been nominated as a Patriots Hall of Fame finalist.​

Jan 12, 1986: Squish the Fish Game



1987 season: Those white-on-white uniforms were sweet



1988 training camp: Andre Tippett, Raymond Clayborn



Oct 9, 1988 with Darryl Stingley



July 29, 2017: Hall of Fame ceremony during training camp​

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
More May 22 Trivia​

May 22, 1996:
Patriots re-sign exclusive rights free agent QB Jay Barker

Jay Barker went from being known as the quarterback of the national champion Alabama Crimson Tide, who vastly improved as a senior (14 TD, 5 Int vs 13/19 in his first three years) and won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award - to being more well known in entertainment tabloids for being married, not married and back together again with a country singer.


In between he spent twelve months with the New England Patriots. He was released at the end of training camp in 1996, and later played in the CFL and XFL - but never got a regular season snap in the NFL.

Patriots re-sign QB Jay Barker - UPI Archives

The New England Patriots Thursday re- signed free agent quarterback Jay Barker to an undisclosed contract. Barker served as the team's third-string...

www.upi.com

The New England Patriots Thursday re- signed free agent quarterback Jay Barker to an undisclosed contract. Barker served as the team's third-string quarterback for 13 games last season, but did not see any action. The former Alabama standout was originally drafted by Green Bay last year, but was released.​

THIS MIGHT BE END FOR PATRIOTS’ BARKER

It can be hard to part with veteran NFL players. There is a certain peace of mind in having players who have experience and have been tested in pressure situations. Jay Barker has not played in an NFL regular season game, yet he is being…

www.courant.com

Jay Barker has not played in an NFL regular season game, yet he is being considered as the backup to Patriots starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe.​

Jay Barker passed for 18 yards vs. Miami, but it was good enough for an Alabama football national championship

Jay Barker was a winner, and it showed when he led Alabama football past Miami for a national championship even though he passed for just 18 yards.

www.tuscaloosanews.com

Former Alabama QB Jay Barker enters plea in domestic violence case

Jay Barker, the former Alabama quarterback who is married to country music singer Sara Evans, has entered a "best interest" plea to a misdemeanor charge stemming from a January arrest on a felony domestic violence charge.

www.espn.com

Sara Evans, Jay Barker reunite after divorce, aggravated assault arrest: ‘We just love each other’

In January 2022, Barker was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after reportedly trying to hit Evans with a vehicle.

www.al.com

May 22, 2003:
Pats sign veteran free agent WR Dedric Ward and restricted free agent RB Patrick Pass

The Patriots released Ward in late August, then re-signed him in November. Pass played for seven seasons in New England and owns four super bowl rings: three with the Patriots, plus another with the 2007 Giants.

Patriots sign veteran free agent WR Dedric Ward; re-sign RFA RB Patrick Pass -- Patriots.com

Ward stays in AFC East, signs with Pats

WR Dedric Ward, who has spent his whole six-year career in the AFC East, has signed a one-year deal with the Patriots.

a.espncdn.com

The Patriots, who have been seeking to add another veteran wide receiver to the mix, had ironically spoken earlier in the signing period with Oronde Gadsden, another Miami free agent. New England officials also visited a few weeks ago with Detroit Lions unrestricted free agent Germane Crowell.​

While he should provide New England with more flexibility, and an experienced return man as well, Ward is coming off two fairly unproductive seasons in Miami.​

Playing for the Jets, he posted his best NFL campaign in 2000, catching 54 passes for 801 yards and three touchdowns. He signed with Miami in 2001, but started just two games in two seasons, and had 40 receptions for 301 yards and no touchdowns.​

A former Northern Iowa standout, Ward was chosen by the Jets in the third round of the '97 draft.​

Patriots sign Dedric Ward - UPI.com

Free agent wide receiver Dedric Ward, who spent the past two seasons with the Miami Dolphins, signed with the New England Patriots Thursday.

www.upi.com

Cedar Rapids' Dedric Ward played on NFL's biggest stage

CEDAR RAPIDS — Imagine walking out of the dark tunnel to thousands of fans yelling your name, wearing your jersey …

www.thegazette.com

May 22, 2008:
Jack Mildren, a quarterback for Chuck Fairbanks at Oklahoma and safety for Fairbanks with the Patriots in 1974, passes away at the age of 58.

Jack Mildren timeline: Texas native goes from Sooner QB to Oklahoma lieutenant governor

•Oct. 10, 1949: Jack Mildren was born in Kingsville, Texas. •Dec. 16, 1967: Mildren was the quarterback for Abilene Cooper High School in the Texas state championship game, a one-point loss to Austin…

www.oklahoman.com

Sooner great Jack Mildren loses battle with cancer

Transcript Sports Writer Former Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor and University of Oklahoma quarterback Jack Mildren died Thursday after a lengthy bout with cancer. He was 58. Mildren was the Sooners' first

www.normantranscript.com

May 22, 2013:

Patriots claim former Rutgers OL Kevin Haslam off waivers

Haslam is the eighth Rutgers player to join New England's roster.

www.masslive.com

Bill Belichick further fed his addiction for Rutgers players by claiming offensive tackle Kevin Haslam off waivers Wednesday.​

Haslam was waived by the San Diego Chargers Tuesday and becomes the eighth Rutgers player to join New England’s 90-man roster. Undrafted rookie R.J. Mattes, an offensive lineman out of North Carolina State, was released in the corresponding move.​

Haslam (6-foot-5, 304 pounds) started last season on San Diego’s practice squad, but got his shot late in the year after injuries struck the Chargers offensive line. He logged 294 snaps over the final five weeks of the season, most of which came at left tackle. Haslam was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent in 2010.​

May 22, 2014:

Patriots Sign 2, Release 2 Others

The Patriots made a series of transactions on Thursday as the team continued to tinker with the bottom portion of its roster ahead of OTAs.

www.boston.com

Patriots Sign Two and Release Two Rookies

The Patriots have signed first-year DB Daxton Swanson (Sam Houston State) and rookie free agent DL L.T. Tuipulotu (Utah). In addition, the Patriots released rookie free agent S Jeremy Deering (Rut...

www.abc6.com

The New England Patriots announced that they have signed first-year DB Daxton Swanson (Sam Houston State) and rookie free agent DL L.T. Tuipulotu (Utah) – (Pronounced too-EE-poo-lo-too). In addition, the Patriots released rookie free agent S Jeremy Deering (Rutgers) and first-year WR Greg Orton (Purdue).​

Swanson, 23, originally entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with the Indianapolis Colts on April 30, 2013 out of Sam Houston State. The 5-foot-11, 191-pounder was released by the Colts on Oct. 29, 2013 and was signed to the San Francisco 49ers practice squad on Nov. 18, 2013. He was released by San Francisco on May 12, 2014. Swanson finished his college career as the school’s all-time leader in interceptions with 14.​

Tuipulotu, 23, played in 12 games with 11 starts as a senior at Utah last season and finished with 42 total tackles, 1 ½ sacks, three fumble recoveries and a forced fumble.​

Deering, 23, signed with the Patriots as a rookie free agent from Rutgers on May 16, 2014. The 6-foot-1, 209-pounder began his career at Rutgers as a running back in 2010 before moving to wide receiver in 2011 and then to safety as a senior in 2013. He played in all 13 games with 10 starts at safety for Rutgers in 2013 and finished with 39 total tackles and one interception.​

Orton, 27, was signed to the Patriots practice squad on Dec. 31, 2013. The 6-foot-3, 199-pounder spent part of 2011 and all of 2012 on the Denver practice squad and went to training camp with Denver in 2013. He originally entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with the Cincinnati Bengals out of Purdue in 2009. Orton had stints with the Arena Football League’s Spokane Shock and the United Football League’s Omaha Knights before joining the Denver practice squad.​

May 22, 2015:
Dalton, Mass native Kevin Hunt, an offensive lineman with the 1973 Patriots, passes away at the age of 66 in Londonderry.

Kevin was initially drafted by the Green Bay Packers, and played most of his career for the Houston Oilers before his final year with the New Orleans Saints. He was a baseball player as well: twice drafted by the Minnesota Twins, first in his senior year of high school and later in his senior year of college.

R. Kevin Hunt Obituary May 22, 2015 - Smart Memorial Home

View R. Kevin Hunt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

www.smartmemorialhome.com

May 22, 2024:
Here is what the forum was discussing 365 days ago:
(Nine-page, 168-comment thread)

Thread 'OT: News from other teams OTA’s'

May 22, 2024

Hmmmm

• sb1
• Replies: 168
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
The other Alex Smith​

Happy 43rd birthday to Alex Smith
Born May 22, 1982 in Denver
Patriot tight end, 2009 (offseason); uniform #80
Acquired in a trade with Tampa Bay on April 30, 2009
Pats résumé: one offseason; zero games


A third round pick from Stanford by Tampa Bay in 2005, the Pats acquired Alex Smith from the Bucs in exchange for a 2010 fifth round draft pick a few days after the 2009 draft. Smith was one of two would-be veteran pass catchers acquired in exchange for a draft pick (WR Greg Lewis from Philadelphia being the other) that did not survive final roster cuts in 2009. That was the same year several veterans were signed as free agents (Joey Galloway, Fred Taylor, Shawn Springs, Chris Baker, Leigh Bodden, Paris Lenon, Brandon McGowan, Tully Banta-Cain), with very mixed to mediocre-at-best results.


April 30, 2009:

Patriots acquire TE Smith from Buccaneers

The Patriots acquire veteran tight end Alex Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a trade today.

www.boston.com

Patriots add Alex Smith to tight ends table

The Patriots added to an already stacked position by acquiring Tampa Bay tight end Alex Smith yesterday for an undisclosed 2010 draft pick. The 6-foot-4, 258-pound Smith, who is a combination pass-catching and blocking tight end, joins…

www.bostonherald.com

A tight situation gets even tighter for Patriots

With a trade with Tampa Bay for Alex Smith, the Patriots’ tight ends now number six.

www.enterprisenews.com

Smith hopes to make his own mark in New England

www.patriotledger.com

September 5, 2009:

Alex Smith released

The Patriots have released tight end Alex Smith, according to a league source. New England gave up a 2010 fifth-round pick to acquire Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Smith was slow to pick up the Patriots offense and had one catch for 3 yards during the preseason. Updated at 6:59 p.m. — —...

www.boston.com

Smith was slow to pick up the Patriots offense and had one catch for 3 yards during the preseason.​

Despite being cut by the Pats, Smith spent seven more seasons in the NFL, mostly with Cleveland. Overall he played in 124 regular season games, with 13 touchdown receptions, plus one TD in four postseason games. After retiring from pro football in 2016, he first worked as a pro scout with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2017-2021. Smith was then promoted to their assistant director of pro scouting, until being let go by the Bucs last year. In 2023 he received his MBA from Indiana University to compliment his undergraduate degree from Stanford in economics, so perhaps it was a mutual decision as he was planning to change careers. Alex is also an advocate for autism welfare.

Patriots training camp: Day 11, Aug 10, 2009:
Tight end Alex Smith fends off linebacker Adalius Thomas during Sunday's lone practice at Gillette Stadium.​

LinkedIn -- Alex Smith

Alex Smith Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Alex Smith Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Alex Smith Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Alex Smith Transactions

Alex Smith (tight end) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Other pro football players born on this date with New England area connections:

- George Sergienko (May 22, 1918 - Dec 4, 1993)
Born and raised in Chicopee; Chicopee High School; American International College (Springfield)
The western Mass native played in the NFL for four seasons, including as left tackle for the 1945 Boston Yanks.

- Tony Holm (May 22, 1908 - July 15, 1978)
Old defunct New England NFL franchise
Alabama grad played for four seasons in the thirties, including one in the backfield for the Providence Steam Roller.

- Frank Santora (May 22, 1926 - Aug 13, 1997)
Old defunct New England NFL franchise
Another old timer, Santora was a quarterback for the 1944 Boston Yanks.

some more of The Other Alex Smith photos...

Today in Patriots History
More May 22 Trivia​

Patriots re-sign exclusive rights free agent QB Jay Barker

May 22, 2008:
Jack Mildren, a quarterback for Chuck Fairbanks at Oklahoma and safety for Fairbanks with the Patriots in 1974, passes away at the age of 58.

Layin' the smack down on OJ...