Today In Patriots History June 6: Happy Birthday to Michael Timpson

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Michael Timpson​

Happy 58th birthday to Michael Timpson
Born June 6, 1967 in Baxley, Georgia; hometown Hialeah, Florida
Patriot wide receiver, 1989-1994; uniform #45, #83
Pats 4th round (100th overall) pick in the 1989 draft, from Penn State
Pats résumé: six seasons, 70 games (25 starts); 14.4 ypc on 172 recepetions for 2,472 yards; three touchdowns


Michael Timpson was a high school and college track star, setting many school records at both levels. He won a high school track national championship in the 110-meter high hurdles with a time of 13.40 seconds, and still holds six school records at Penn State. Timpson also came close to representing the US on the track team for the 1992 Olympics.

​

Michael Dwain Timpson played in 70 games over six seasons with the Pats, catching 172 passes for 2,472 yards and eight touchdowns. 1994 was the second season for Bill Parcells and Drew Bledsoe with the Patriots, when the Pats improved from 5-11 to 10-6 and a playoff berth. For Timpson it was the best season of his NFL career, with 74 receptions for 941 yards. After six seaons in New England he cashed in as a free agent with Chicago. Timpson finished his career of nine seasons with the Pats, Bears and Eagles with 300 receptions for 4,047 yards and 13 total touchdowns.


Early in the 1990 season Timpson was one of three players that made headlines that cast the Patriots in an international negative light. While Boston Herald reporter Lisa Olson was interviewing Maurice Hurst in the locker room, teammates Zeke Mowatt and Robert Perryman looked on, fondling their genitals. Timpson laughed and egged the others on. The NFL ended up fining Timpson $5,000 for the incident. He paid the fine but had the chutzpah to sue the team's insurer for his legal expenses.

Meanwhile owner Victor Kiam became his own worst enemy by pouring gasoline on the fire. First he went against league policy by stating that women should not be in the locker room. Then at a male-only sports banquet he made a comment without ever considering whether it was appropriate, or that it might be reported to the general public. "What do Lisa Olson and Iraqis have in common? They've both seen Patriot missiles up close'' was Kiam's infamous attempt at humor. The joke was referring to Patriot missiles that were used to shoot down Iraqi scud missiles in the then-current Persian Gulf war.


When Timpson was signed by the Bears in 1995, he ranked fifth in Patriots franchise history with 172 career receptions (30th now, between Aaron Hernandez and David Patten), and 12th with 2,472 yards receiving (26th now, between Jim Whalen and Danny Amendola). Over nine NFL seasons Timpson had 300 catches for 4,047 yards (13.5 ypc), and 13 touchdowns.


In his post-NFL career Timpson has been a twice-fired high school coach and athletic director in central Florida, with an abysmal win-loss record. Timpson's son Michael Jr. inherited the speed genes; he too became a track star, at the University of Florida.

Timpson doing what he can with the Patriots

For the past five years he's had to endure it -- losing. It's something no professional football player can get used to, especially Michael Timpson."Basically, coming from Penn State and

www.collegian.psu.edu

Michael Timpson loses football coaching position at Poinciana

Former Penn State and NFL wide receiver Michael Timpson has been let go as Poinciana’s head football coach, meaning the Eagles will be searching for their fifth head coach in six seasons. Timpson told the Sentinel on Monday that his…

www.orlandosentinel.com

Michael Timpson steps down as Inlet Grove football coach; will take over AD role at Lake Worth

Michael Timpson has stepped down as Inlet Grove’s football coach to accept the athletic director position at Lake Worth. Timpson spent two seasons with the Hurricanes, going 1-16. Inlet Grove has struggled to find consistency at the…

www.sun-sentinel.com

MICHAEL TIMPSON vs. TRANSAMERICA INSURANCE COMPANY.

MICHAEL TIMPSON vs. TRANSAMERICA INSURANCE COMPANY. - 41 Mass. App. Ct. 344

law.justia.com

The plaintiff, Michael Timpson, brought this Superior Court action against the defendant, Transamerica Insurance Company (Transamerica). Timpson's complaint contained two counts. Count I alleged that because Transamerica wrongfully failed to defend him in an action brought by reporter Lisa Olson, Transamerica should reimburse him for legal fees and associated costs incurred by him in the course of his defense against Olson's action. Count II alleged that Transamerica engaged in unfair claim settlement practices in violation of G. L. c. 93A and G. L. c. 176D, s. 3. Timpson moved for summary judgment on both counts of his complaint. Transamerica filed a cross motion for summary judgment. After a hearing, the motion judge entered an order denying Timpson's motion for summary judgment and allowing Transamerica's cross motion. Timpson appeals from the ensuing judgments. We affirm.​

From the materials before the motion judge, the following appears. In May 1990, Transamerica and the owners of the New England Patriots football team (Patriots) entered into an insurance contract (the policy) which was effective through May 9, 1991. As a football player for the Patriots, Timpson was an "additional insured" under the policy, which required Transamerica to provide for the payment of Timpson's legal expenses, including attorneys fees, in the event that Timpson was sued in connection with conduct or acts allegedly engaged in while acting "within the scope of his duties" as a Patriot's employee.​

The allegations of Olson's complaint were to this effect. She was a sports reporter for the Boston Herald. On September 17 1990, she conducted an interview in the Patriots' locker room with Patriots' player, Maurice Hurst. During the interview, another player, Zeke Mowatt, while naked, stood close to Olson, and proceeded to make crude remarks and gestures toward her. Timpson allegedly "laughed and shouted encouragement" to Mowatt. ln addition, other players, naked, allegedly approached Olson, displayed their genitals to her, and made vulgar comments. James Oldham, a member of management personnel for the Patriots, was present during the incident and made no effort to stop the players' conduct.​

Olson's complaint named as defendants the Patriots and several players, including Timpson. Olson's complaint charged Timpson and other Patriots' players with sexual harassment, violation of her civil rights, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and interference with advantageous relations.​

After service of the summons and the complaint, Timpson demanded that Transamerica defend his claim. Transamerica refused and denied it had a duty to defend him because Timpson had acted "outside the scope of his duties as an employee of the New England Patriots."​

Olson's lawsuit was settled prior to trial, without Timpson conceding to any liability. Still, Timpson incurred legal costs and attorney's fees totaling $87,705.76. Timpson's request for reimbursement was denied by Transamerica. Transamerica maintained that Timpson's alleged conduct was performed outside the scope of his duties as a Patriots' employee and thus was not covered under the policy.​

Timpson argued below and on appeal that there was a possibility that the damages sought by him would be covered under the policy where he arguably (1) acted within the scope of employment, and (2) acted negligently. The Superior Court judge concluded, however, that the kinds of losses that might be proved that lay within the range of the allegations of the complaint did not fit the expectation of insurance reasonably generated by the terms of the policy. See Sterilite Corp. v. Continental Cas. Co., 17 Mass. App. Ct. 316 , 318-319 (1983) Therefore, the judge concluded that Transamerica appropriately did not defend Timpson.​

In reviewing a grant for summary judgment, we determine "whether, viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the nonmoving party, all material facts have been established and the moving party is entitled to a judgment as a matter of law." Mass.R.Civ.P. 56, 365 Mass. 824 (1974). Judson v. Essex Agric. & Technical Inst., 418 Mass. 159 , 162 (1994).​

Here, where both parties moved for summary judgment and the evidence taken in the light most favorable to Timpson entitled Transamerica to a judgment as a matter of law on both counts of Timpson's complaint, the judge properly granted Transamerica's summary judgment motion and denied Timpson's motion.​

Female reporter harassed

Tagliabue issued fines totaling $72,500 to the Patriots and three players in November 1990 for their role in a sexual-harassment charge by Boston Herald reporter Lisa Olson. Victor Kiam, the

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Women sports writers across the country Friday defended their... - UPI Archives

Women sports writers across the country Friday defended their Boston Herald colleague who was sexually harassed by players on the New England Patriots....

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Woman sports writer says she's received death threats - UPI Archives

The female sports writer who says she was sexually harassed by several New England Patriots said Sunday she has received death threats....

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Team, 3 Football Players Fined for Sexual Harassment

Two New England Patriots players and a former teammate were fined a total of $22,500 and the team was fined $25,000 today by the National Football League for involvement in the alleged sexual harassment of a female reporter.

www.latimes.com

Lisa Olson files sex harassment suit against Patriots - UPI Archives

Boston Herald sports writer Lisa Olson filed a sexual harassment suit Thursday against the New England Patriots for last September's locker room incident in...

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SEASON OF TORMENT

The early morning, at five or six o'clock, is when sportswriter Lisa Olson can leave her apartment with the least worry. She can walk the empty streets of her

vault.si.com

1995 Bears Media Guide

Michael Timpson Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

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Pro Football Archives -- Michael Timpson Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Michael Timpson Transactions

Michael Timpson - Wikipedia

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Today in Patriots History
Michael Timpson​

Happy 58th birthday to Michael Timpson

here's one of him sporting 45...

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Cody Davis​

Happy 36th birthday to Cody Davis
Born June 6, 1989 in Stephenville, Texas
Patriot core special teamer, 2020-2023; uniform #22
Signed as a veteran free agent on March 23, 2020 (Jaguars) to a 1-year, $1.5 million contract
Pats résumé: four seasons, 47 games; 905 special team snaps, one snap on defense; 35 tackles, one touchdown


With the exception of 2016-2017 with the Rams, Cody Davis was virtually exclusively a special teams player. In his four seasons in New England, Cody was on the field for 78%, 78%, 72% and 69% of the special team snaps, and only one defensive snap at safety. Davis played in 146 NFL games over 11 seasons with the Rams, Jaguars and Patriots.


On March 19, 2021 New England re-signed Cody to a two-year contract with $2.1 million guaranteed. He announced his retirement from pro football on March 28, 2024.

March 23, 2020:

Patriots sign special teams standout Cody Davis

The Patriots have added a new player in a familiar role, signing free agent safety/core special teamer Cody Davis Monday, according to Davis’s agent Jordan Woy. The move comes just a few days after former Patriots safety/core special teamer Nate Ebner signed with the Giants. Davis, played 382...

www.boston.com

The Patriots have added a new player in a familiar role, signing free agent safety/core special teamer Cody Davis Monday.​

The move comes just a few days after former Patriots safety/core special teamer Nate Ebner signed with the Giants.​

Davis, played 382 special teams snaps in 2019, the third-most of any NFL player behind Carolina’s Colin Jones and the New York Giants’ Michael Thomas. Matthew Slater led the Patriots in special teams snaps with 326.​

Davis, 30, has been in the NFL since 2013, originally signing with the Rams as an undrafted free agent out of Texas Tech in 2013. He spent five years with the Rams and then went to Jacksonville for two seasons. He’s 6-foot-2 and 203 pounds and, though he’s made his career on special teams, did play some defense for the Rams in 2016 and 2017.​

He’s also really fast. In 2016, according to the Rams’ website, he hit 23.32 miles per hour on one play tracked by the NFL’s Next Gen Stats and topped 22 miles per hour in 10 of his 15 games played for LA that year.​

Fun fact: Davis competed on The Price Is Right in 2017 and won $5,000 which he donated to charity.​

It’s most logical to think that Davis fits best into Ebner’s old role, but the Patriots did sign a player who’d made his career on special teams, Terrence Brooks, before last season and wound up having him play meaningful defensive snaps as well.​

March 17, 2021:

Cody Davis, With Help From His Son, Announces Return To Pats On 2-Year Deal

In a video on his Twitter account, Davis enlisted his son, Kane Davis, who dressed in a Patriots uniform, to break the news about his return to New England.

boston.cbslocal.com

Patriots re-sign special teamer Cody Davis

Patriots re-sign special teamer Cody Davis

www.providencejournal.com

Patriots Veteran Makes Surprising Retirement Announcement

The Patriots have endured a few (rather surprising) retirement announcements this offseason, and saw another veteran call it quits Thursday.

nesn.com

The Patriots have endured a few (rather surprising) retirement announcements this offseason, and now will see one of the best at his position call it quits.​

It’s a new era in New England, indeed.​

Cody Davis, who spent each of the last four seasons with the Patriots, announced his retirement from the NFL on Thursday.​

Davis’ spot in New England was secure for a number of seasons, but given the changes happening around the building, it made sense for the 34-year-old to go out on his own terms. The Patriots’ release of fellow special teamer Chris Board, hiring of new coordinator Jeremy Springer and the NFL’s decision to revamp kickoff rules might have signaled the writing was on the wall for Davis.​

The Patriots also lost special teams legend Matthew Slater to retirement this offseason, promising a completely different unit under first-year head coach Jerod Mayo. Brenden Schooler will be tasked with leading the charge under the new regime.​

Davis played 11 seasons after originally signing with the then-St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2013.​

March 28, 2024:

New England Patriots Special Teams Standout Cody Davis Retires

The New England Patriots will be without the services of one of their most reliable special teamers for the upcoming season. Safety Cody Davis, who has been a

www.si.com

In addition to losing Davis, the Patriots will also face a new season without Slater — a mainstay in Patriots special teams for 16 seasons, who announced his retirement last month. Accordingly, new special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer, faces a tall task in restoring prominence to the team’s third phase. Once considered the the NFL’s gold standard in special teams preparation and execution, the Pats have significantly regressed in recent years. Throughout the past two seasons, the Pats special teams corps finished No. 28 in special teams DVOA in 2023, after finishing last in the metric in 2022.​

Patriots special teamer Cody Davis announces retirement from NFL after 11 seasons

The Patriots have lost another veteran player off their special teams unit, as Cody Davis has announced his retirement from the NFL.

www.cbsnews.com

Davis played just one defensive snap over his four seasons with the Patriots, but logged 905 snaps on special teams. He played over 3,000 special teams snaps in his career, which began with the St. Louis Rams in 2013 after Davis went undrafted out of Texas Tech. He spent five seasons with the Rams and then two with the Jacksonville Jaguars before signing with the Patriots in 2020.​

Davis racked up 118 tackles, a pair of fumble recoveries, and two interceptions over his career. He scored the only touchdown of his career last season with the Patriots, returning a fumbled kickoff return in New England's Christmas Eve win over the Broncos in Denver.​

Patriots special teams veteran Cody Davis announces retirement -- Reuters

"Honored as 1 of 15 NFF National Scholars-Athletes," Davis wrote. "Earned my masters degree in data science. Created a charity program for Boston Children's Hospital and won their Champions Award. Recognized as NFLPA Community Player of the Week. All of these accolades I hold close to my heart more than any athletic achievement. I'm proud of being able to not only play football but also volunteer, give, love, and serve with every team and in every city we have lived in along this journey."​

Cody Davis - Football - Texas Tech Red Raiders

Cody DavisS - 2018 (6TH SEASON) Did not record any stats in his 20 snaps for the Jaguars' special teams unit against the Eagles on Oct. 28. Made his debut wi...

texastech.com

Cody Davis Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

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Pro Football Archives -- Cody Davis Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Cody Davis Transactions

Cody Davis Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Cody Davis contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Career Earnings: $16,269,881

Cody Davis - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

LinkedIn -- Cody Davis
Cody Davis -- Austin Texas -- Interlock Commercial Partners
A highly motivated professional with experience in the NFL, a masters degree in data science, and a passion for serving people.

 

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Today in Patriots History
Cody Davis​

Happy 36th birthday to Michael Timpson
Born June 6, 1989 in Stephenville, Texas
Patriot core special teamer, 2020-2023; uniform #22
Signed as a veteran free agent on March 23, 2020 (Jaguars) to a 1-year, $1.5 million contract
Pats résumé: four seasons, 47 games; 905 special team snaps, one snap on defense; 35 tackles, one touchdown

need to edit the birthday line... this guy completely flew under the radar for me... had been here three years before i knew his name...

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Gene Mruczkowski​

Happy 45th birthday to Gene Mruczkowski
Born June 6, 1980 in Cleveland, Ohio
Patriot guard/center, 2003-2006, 2008; uniform #64
Signed as an undrafted rookie free agent on May 16, 2003
Pats résumé: three seasons, 18 regular season games; four postseason games; ring from super bowl 39

Mruczkowski Signs Free-Agent Contract With New England - Purdue Boilermakers

May 18, 2003 WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - After going undrafted because of concerns about his surgically repaired knee, former Purdue offensive lineman Gene Mruczk...

purduesports.com

After going undrafted because of concerns about his surgically repaired knee, former Purdue offensive lineman Gene Mruczkowski has signed with the New England Patriots as a free agent.​

The 6-foot-3, 297-pound Mruczkowski, from Cleveland, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his final regilar-season game and missed the Boilermakers' 2002 Sun Bowl game. He had started 48 consecutive games, the first 24 at left guard and the last 24 at center.​

Mruczkowski twice was named second team Academic All-American (2000 and 2002). He earned Academic All-District honors three times and Academic All-Big Ten recognition on four occasions. He was honorable mention All-Big Ten in 2000 and a second team Freshman All-American in 1999.​

The Patriots now have four former Boilermakers on their roster: Mruczkowski, linebacker Rosevelt Colvin and offensive tackles Matt Light and Brandon Gorin.​

The undrafted Purdue alum did not get off to a fast start. He suffered a leg injury prior to New England's 2003 training camp and was placed on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list on Aug. 26, 2003, missing the entire season. Between a half dozen releases and re-signings he appeared in 18 games over three years for the Patriots, then spent 2007 with the Dolphins. The Pats re-signed him in June of 2008 but he then retired at the start of training camp. These days he is back in his hometown of Cleveland working for a medical device manufacturing company.


Sept 27, 2005:
Patriots place Mruczkowski on Injured Reserve -- Patriots.com

Mruczkowski in the fold

The Patriots agreed to terms with offensive lineman Gene Mruczkowski on Tuesday.

www.boston.com

Addressing depth on their offensive line and the leg injury of tackle Matt Light, the Patriots agreed to terms on a one-year deal with Gene Mruczkowski on Tuesday.​

A center/guard, the 6-foot-2, 305-pound Mruczkowski spent the last two seasons with the Patriots, playing 10 games as a reserve in 2004. He spent the 2003 season on the Patriots’ reserve/non-football injury list.​

The 25-year-old Mruczkowski was part of the Patriots’ final cuts on Sept. 3.​

Gene Mruczkowski Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

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Pro Football Archives -- Gene Mruczkowski Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Gene Mruczkowski Transactions

Gene Mruczkowski - Wikipedia

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LinkedIn -- Gene Mruczkowski
Director of Sales - Cleveland District at Arthrex Cleveland

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Jamie Morris​

Happy 60th birthday to Jamie Morris
Born June 6, 1965 in Southern Pines, NC; hometown Ayer, Massachusetts
Patriot kick returner/running back, 1990; uniform #24
Signed as a Plan B free agent (formerly with Washington) on March 31, 1990
Pats résumé: one season, five games; 18.4 yard avg on 11 kick returns; two carries for four yards


There have been three people from Ayer, Mass. to make it to the NFL - and they are all brothers, and all running backs.

Most well known in is the Giants RB "Little" Joe Morris, who stood 5'7 and rushed for 5,585 yards and scored 50 touchdowns Joe was on the Bill Parcells team that beat Denver to win super bowl 21, when Phil Simms was the MVP after setting an NFL postseason record for best completion percentage (88%), going 22-25. Another brother, Larry played briefly for Green Bay. Jamie Morris had 845 yards from scrimmage in two seasons with Washington prior to arriving in Foxborough. He played in five games for the Pats, with 11 kick returns plus two rushes for four yards. Over three NFL seasons Jamie scored four touchdowns, with 1,460 all purpose yards.

Jamie Morris went on to football greatness, but never forgot his Ayer roots

Jamie Morris grew up on an Army base, in a house with two strict parents and five older siblings, then played football for a series of coaches that were decidedly “old school” in their view of discipline and training. …

www.lowellsun.com

1990 Patriots Media Guide

Jamie Morris Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

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Pro Football Archives -- Jamie Morris Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Jamie Morris Transactions

Jamie Morris - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Tom Dimitroff​

In memory of Tom Dimitroff, born on this date 90 years ago
Born June 6, 1935 in Akron; hometown Barberton, Ohio
Died Jan 20, 1996, in Ohio at the age of 60
Patriot quarterback, 1960; Uniform #15
Signed as a free agent on November 9, 1960
Pats résumé: three games; zero-for-two with two sacks

The senior Dimitroff is the father of the namesake former Patriot director of college scouting (2003-07) and Atlanta Falcon general manager (2008-20). The elder Tom Dimitroff played for the Ottawa Rough Riders in the CFL for two seasons and came out of retirement to play in the AFL, appearing in a few games with the inaugural 1960 Boston Patriots. Tom Sr. later spent 18 seasons as a coach, executive and scout, including ten years (1987-96) as a scout for the Browns - which just happened to overlap the five seasons that Bill Belichick was Cleveland's head coach.

Tom Dimitroff Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

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Pro Football Archives -- Tom Dimitroff Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Tom Dimitroff Transactions

Tom Dimitroff Sr. - Wikipedia

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[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Dennis Wirgowski
And other 20th Century June 6 Tidbits​

June 6, 1970:
The Boston Patriots sign ninth round draft pick Dennis Wirgowski, a defensive end from Purdue
He would play in 37 games for the Patriots from 1970-1972.

Aug 11, 1973: Patriot defensive tackles Dennis Wirgowski (70) and Dave Rowe (76) sign autographs at a preseason practice​

Dennis Wirgowski, Bay City football star who played in NFL, dies at 66

In 1970, Wirgowski was a ninth-round draft pick of the Boston Patriots of the NFL. He saw game action in three seasons with the Patriots and one with the Philadelphia Eagles, chasing down the likes O.J. Simpson and Bob Griese.

www.mlive.com

Patrons of the Columbus Avenue tavern always knew they could enjoy a meat-and-crackers snack – courtesy of the establishment – and heaping helpings of stories of Elmer Engel, Big Ten football or life in the NFL, compliments of the Bay City legend they call "Nuts."​

"He's been telling everybody he'll buy them lunch at the Bell for 40 years," said friend Ron Earl. "That's just Nuts being Nuts."​

Wirgowski, the former Bay City Central star who played parts of six seasons in the NFL, died at his home Saturday at the age of 66, as confirmed by his wife, Bethany.​

The 6-foot-5, 250-pound Wirgowski created a Bay City legacy as a big, strong, fast and mean football player at Central. As a two-way end, he led the Wolves to a 9-0 record and the Class A state championship under Engel in 1965. He was presented the very first Golden Helmet Award from Coca-Cola and The Bay City Times.​

Wirgowski earned high school All-American honors then took his talents to Purdue University as a defensive end. In 1970, he was a ninth-round draft pick of the Boston Patriots of the NFL. He saw game action in three seasons with the Patriots and one with the Philadelphia Eagles, chasing down the likes of O.J. Simpson and Bob Griese.​

Following his NFL career, he returned to Bay City. Wirgowski owned The Backstreets bar for a time and worked for 28 years at Stevens Worldwide Van Lines.​

"He's been all around the world, he's played in the NFL," said longtime friend Monte Oswald, the former boxing champion who has a place alongside Wirgowski in the Bay County Sports Hall of Fame. "He could have gone anywhere, and what did he do? He came back to Bay City, and life is good."​

The Bay City legend became a visible fixture about town. He was a daily visitor of the Dow Bay Area Family Y, where he could always be found reading the paper while walking on the same treadmill every day. And, on Saturdays, he would hold court at Bell Bar, sipping a beer or a Bloody Mary, eating the free snacks and regaling anybody in earshot with a story.​

"He had a rough edge to him, but he loved people," said Ron Earl, who was 12 when he first became friends with Wirgowski. "He was tough, he was confident, but he cared about people.​

June 6, 1980:
Patriots sign undrafted rookie free agent RB Mal Najarian, from Boston University

Mal Najarian (1987) - Boston University Athletic Hall of Fame - Boston University Athletics

Boston University Athletics

goterriers.com

A bruising ballcarrier from Cranston, Rhode Island, Mal Najarian was the first in a line of record-breaking tailbacks who carried the Terriers to the top of Division 1-AA football.​

When he graduated in 1980, Najarian's career highs included 41 rushes in a game, 244 in a season, and 580 in his career. In addition, he rushed 244 yards in a game, 1137 in a season, and 2641 in his career.​

As a junior in 1978, Najarian became the first Terrier ever to rush for more than 1000 yards, a feat he accomplished despite being sidelined three games with a shoulder separation. In the other seven games, Najarian topped the 100-yard plateau six times, including a season-best 196 yards against Northeastern. He also led ECAC Division 1-AA in scoring with 60 points.​

His accomplishments earned him a series of honors, the most notable being Associated Press Honorable Mention All-America. In addition, he was First Team All-East, All-New England and All-Yankee Conference.​

Najarian darted for 1137 yards in his senior year and topped the 100-yard mark five times, highlighted by 244 yards against Northeastern. Again the awards piled up, with Najarian gaining First Team Associated Press and Kodak All-America recognition. He added the Harry Agganis Award, voted on by New England writers and presented to the region's Player of the Year, and the Gridiron Club of Boston likewise declared Najarian New England's Player of the Year.​

Patriots sign twelfth round draft pick Jimmy Jordan to a series of one-year contracts

Jordan was a quarterback from Florida State who was cut at the end of camp on Septmber 1. He then signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Bandits of the USFL, and played with them through 1985. Jordan had shared quarterbacking duties for the #4 ranked Seminoles in 1979, going undefeated through the regular season before finally losing to Oklahoma 24-7 in the Orange Bowl.

Jimmy Jordan Bio - Florida State University

Hall of Fame Class: 1985 (Football) In four years at Florida State (1976-79), Jimmy Jordan completed 298 of 595 passes for 4,173 yards and 39 touchdowns. He ...

seminoles.com

June 6, 1983:
The Patriots re-sign fullback Mark van Eeghen for what would be the final season of his 10-year NFL career.

NFL Great and RI Native Van Eeghen Talks Super Bowl Wins, Raiders and…

NFL great Mark Van Eeghen joined GoLocal LIVE for a special edition to discuss his career that led him from Rhode Island high school star at Cranston West…

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June 6, 1984:
New England signs sixth round draft pick Ernest Gibson, a corner from Furman

The Jacksonville native played in 67 games over five seasons for the Patriots, with four interceptions.

Ernest Gibson (1990) - Furman Athletics Hall of Fame - Furman University

Ernest Gibson, Class: 1984 Induction: 1990 Sport(s): Football, Men's Track & Field - Jacksonville, Fla. '84 B.A. Political Science Football — Defensive Back Four-Year

furmanpaladins.com

Class:1984​

Induction: 1990​

Ernest Gibson played on four consecutive Southern Conference Championship football teams. At his induction, he held the career record for most consecutive starts (42). He was a two-time Kodak and Associated Press All-American (1982-83). Gibson earned All-Southern Conference honors in 1982 and 1983. He was drafted in the sixth round by the New England Patriots.​

June 6, 1995:
The Pats re-sign exclusive rights free agent Doug Skene

Skene was an eighth round draft pick from Michigan by the Eagles in 1993, and the Pats picked the rookie up off waivers in November. Out of training camp in '94 Skene was the starting right guard, and played in the first six games for the Patriots. In an October game against the Raiders he was making a block when 310 pound Chester McGlockton fell on the back of his knee, resulting in season ending surgery. Skene came back in 1995 hoping to compete with Todd Rucci, who had finished the season at right guard. However the knee was still not 100%, and he elected to retire after being cut at the end of training camp.

June 6, 1997:
Patriots sign second round draft pick Brandon Mitchell, a defensive lineman from Texas A&M.

Patriots sign restricted free agent Marty Moore, a linebacker originally drafted in 1994.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Corey Vereen
And other 21st Century June 6 News​

June 6, 2000:

Patriots Waive CB Evan Howell

FOXBORO, Mass. – The New England Patriots waived cornerback Evan Howell today.

www.patriots.com

The New England Patriots waived cornerback Evan Howell today. He was originally signed by the Patriots on April 25, 2000.​

Howell, 22, earned three letters and played in 31 games while attending Oklahoma State. The 5-foot-11-inch, 185-pound cornerback recorded 86 tackles (78 solos) and four interceptions during his Cowboy career.​

OSU Suspends Four Football Players

Oklahoma State University suspended four of its starting football players Monday. The action comes after Stillwater police began investigating the alleged rape of a 22-year-old student. Stillwater

www.newson6.com

Stillwater is abuzz with questions of why four football stars have been suspended. The athletic department shocked the OSU campus by suspending Marcellus Rivers, Evan Howell, J-B Flowers and Alvin Porter just days before the team faces archrival O-U. The school said only that the players violated team policy.​

Neither the Stillwater Police nor the school are calling the players suspects in a rape which occurred Sunday morning. A resident of the house where the rape was reported told the News on Six the players were at the home Saturday night.​

June 6, 2005:
The Patriots sign seven-year NFL veteran safety Antuan Edwards. He would be waived August 25.

Pats sign Edwards to one-year deal

www.milforddailynews.com

The Patriots added another piece to their defensive backfield yesterday, signing free-agent Antuan Edwards to a one-year contract worth $540,000.​

The 6-foot-1, 210-pound Edwards has experience at both cornerback and safety, with his best fit in New England likely at safety, where he could add a veteran presence behind starters Rodney Harrison and Eugene Wilson. The top backups are second-year players Guss Scott and Dexter Reid, and rookie James Sanders.​

"Of all the situations that presented itself to Antuan throughout the process, this remained one of the most intriguing ones," said Florida-based Brian Levy, who represents Edwards.​

"It wasn't just because of the status of the Patriots organization in the NFL, and their dominance over the past few years, but also my familiarity with (Vice President of Player Personnel) Scott Pioli and Bill Belichick and what they've done for some of my other clients, how they've helped their careers."​

Levy represents current Patriots cornerback Hank Poteat, whom the team signed Jan. 10, prior to the playoffs, despite the fact he didn't play with any club during the regular season. Poteat played in all three postseason games. Former Patriot Bobby Hamilton is another Levy client.​

Levy said four teams expressed interest in Edwards, a first-round pick of the Packers in 1999. Edwards played for Green Bay from 1999-2003, before splitting time with the Dolphins and Rams last season. He's appeared in 68 games, with 31 starts.​

"Antuan is looking forward to helping the Patriots defend their Super Bowl," he said.​

#42 Antuan Edwards defends against David Givens during morning practice on Aug 15, 2005​

June 6, 2008:
The Patriots give Gene Mruczkowski a gift, signing him to a contract on his 28th birthday

He had played in a career-high 15 games in Miami the previous season, and had been with the Pats from 2004 through the 2007 preseason.

Patriots sign G/C Gene Mruczkowski

The New England Patriots signed free agent offensive lineman Gene Mruczkowski today. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

www.patriots.com

June 6, 2013:

Patriots sign A.J. Edds

The Patriots have signed free-agent linebacker A.J. Edds, who played for New England briefly in 2011.

www.providencejournal.com

The Patriots have signed free-agent linebacker A.J. Edds, who played for New England briefly in 2011.​

The 25-year-old Edds, who is 6-4, 256 pounds, is a former fourth-round draft pick of the Miami Dolphins. He played 11 games with the Patriots and Colts in 2011. Knee injuries wiped out his 2010 and 2012 seasons.​

Straight-forward 1-year deal for Edds

The contract signed by linebacker A.J. Edds with the Patriots on Thursday is a straight-forward one-year deal that reflects a player who was looking for an opportunity.

www.espn.com

The contract signed by linebacker A.J. Edds with the Patriots on Thursday is a straight-forward one-year deal that reflects a player who was looking for an opportunity.​

Base salary: $480,000​

Split: $303,000 (should he land on a reserve list)​

Bonuses: $0​

Cap number: $480,000​

There is an injury waiver as part of the deal, which might be related to knee injuries that have sidelined Edds in two of his NFL seasons.​

Edds showed enough to make the Patriots' 53-man roster back in 2011, as he has some versatility to line up at all the linebacker spots and be a factor on special teams. He missed last season with a knee injury but is expected to be ready for training camp.​

June 6, 2017:
DE Corey Vereen goes unclaimed on waivers and reverts to injured reserve

The rookie from Tennessee had torn his ACL during mini camp practices.

Pats rookies (L to R) Cody Hollister, Corey Vereen, Cole Croston, and Deatrich Wise Jr., visit kids at Boston Children's Hospital June 19, 2017​

June 6, 2024:

Patriots sign rookie WR JaQuae Jackson, cut WR T.J. Luther

The Patriots signed rookie receiver JaQuae Jackson, the team announced Thursday.

www.nbcsports.com

The Patriots signed rookie receiver JaQuae Jackson, the team announced Thursday. The Patriots cut first-year receiver T.J. Luther in a corresponding move.​

Patriots Rumors: Wide Receiver Signs After Funny Roster Shuffle

The Patriots signed a wide receiver Thursday that concluded a funny series of roster moves between them and the Atlanta Falcons.

nesn.com

New England kickstarted the chain of events Monday, releasing offensive lineman Andrew Stueber. Atlanta must have liked something in the versatile lineman, claiming him on waivers and making room by waiving Jackson. Where does Jackson end up? One Patriot Place, of course!​

That is Jackson, above, and Luther, below

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Rico Clark
And yet more Jan 6 birthdays​

Happy 51st birthday to Rico Clark
Born June 6, 1974 in Atlanta
Patriot cornerback, 1999; uniform #39
Signed as a veteran free agent on December 29, 1999
Pats résumé: one game

Rico Clark appeared in only one game with the Patriots, a 20-3 week 17 victory versus Baltimore four days after he was signed. Over three NFL seasons Rico played in 29 games: 20 for the Colts (1997-98), eight for the Bengals (1999) and one for the Pats. He is credited with two interceptions and three kickoff returns. Rico also played for Amsterdam in NFL Europe in the summer of 2000, and for the Memphis Maniax of the XFL in 2001.




Happy 26th birthday to Manny Jones
Born June 6, 1999 in Cartersville, Georgia
Patriot DL, 2023 practice squad; uniform #94
Signed to the practice squad as a veteran free agent on September 27, 2023
Pats résumé: three weeks on the practice squad

Sept 27, 2023:

Sources: Patriots adding defensive line depth after recent injuries

The Patriots added depth at a position of need Wednesday.

www.bostonherald.com

The Patriots signed defensive lineman Manny Jones to their practice squad, sources told the Herald.​

Additional depth along the defensive line was needed after the Patriots placed defensive tackle Daniel Ekuale on injured reserve Tuesday. Defensive tackle Davon Godchaux also missed the second half of Sunday’s win over the Jets with an ankle injury.​

Jones, who’s 6-foot-4, 290 pounds, has spent time with the Steelers and Cardinals since going undrafted out of Colorado State in 2022. He joins fellow defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. on the practice squad. Christian Barmore, Lawrence Guy and Sam Roberts are the fully healthy defensive tackles on the Patriots’ 53-man roster. Defensive ends Deatrich Wise and Keion White can also kick inside in certain situations.​

Jones played four games with the Cardinals last season. He registered six tackles. He fills the final spot on the Patriots’ practice squad. They still have an open spot on their 53-man roster.​

Oct 18, 2023:
Patriots Make Changes to the Practice Squad

The New England Patriots announced today that they have signed DL William Bradley-King and RB Patrick Taylor to the practice squad and released DL Manny Jones and WR T.J. Luther from the practice squad.​

Happy 80th birthday to Bill Peterson
Born June 6, 1945 in San Diego
Patriot LB, 1973; uniform #??
Acquired in trade with Bengals for a 1974 4th round draft pick on August 22, 1973

After four years at linebacker for San Jose State, Bill Peterson played the 1967 season for San Jose of the Continental League, a minor league from the late sixties that produced Bill Walsh, Ken Stabler, Sam Wyche, Bob Kuechenberg, Garo Yepremian and Otis Sistrunk. He signed as a free agent with Cincinnati the following year, and played with the Benglas for four seasons. Peterson spent the entire '73 season on injured reserve, and was waived by Chuck Fairbanks four days prior to the start of the 1974 season. According to the Pats 1974 media guide, Peterson worked as a probation officer during the offseason and was seeking a degree in physical therapy.




Happy 80th birthday to Max Anderson
Born June 6, 1945 in Stockton, California
Patriot RB, 1973 offseason; no uniform #
Claimed off waivers from Kansas City on August 10, 1973

Max Anderson had been a fifth round draft pick by the Bills in 1968, from Arizona State. He retired three days after the Pats claimed him off waivers. There's a very lengthy article about Max Anderson via the link below.

https://www.profootballresearchers.org/biography/Anderson_Max.pdf

Max Anderson, the diminutive 5-foot, 8-inch, 180 pound running back, finished third in the nation in rushing, behind only the incomparable O.J. Simpson and Mercury Morris, in his senior season at Arizona State. As a rookie, with the Buffalo Bills, he also led the team in rushing during their ignominious 1-12-1 season in 1968. He played one more season with the Bills, as a teammate of Simpson’s, then injured his knee, and was subsequently released by the Bills.​

The highlight of Anderson’s 1969 preseason was in handing Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi his only loss to an AFL team. Max was the star of the game, rushing for 59 yards on 10 carries and scoring the Bills’ second touchdown on a sweep around left end for 11 yards. With the Bills trailing, 17-14, in the fourth quarter, Anderson caught a Tom Flores pass and lugged it to the 1-yard line, setting up Buffalo’s game-winning touchdown. The Bills stunned the Redskins 21-17 at a time when the AFL vs. NFL preseason games were as important as regular season games to the combatants since they didn’t start playing each other in the regular season until 1970.​

Anderson was in training camp with Hamilton in 1972 but again was injured and missed the season. He tried a comeback with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1973, signing a contract with the club on April 2. He was with the Chiefs during training camp but was released on August 7. He was claimed on waivers by the New England Patriots, but Max decided against playing, ending his football career.​

After he retired from the game, he taught school for a year. He then joined Motorola Semi-Conductor Products Division in Phoenix, AZ. In 1973, the company loaned him to be the youth programs director for the Phoenix office of the National Alliance of Businessmen. He was responsible for encouraging Phoenix high school students to continue and finish their education and pursue their dreams. He stayed at Motorola for six years. He then went to Intel as a recruiter, spending 11 years there before spending a few years at National Cash Register in a similar role. He concluded his business career with a 15-year stint at Bashas, a grocery store chain. He retired in 2016 and lives in Arizona with his wife Iris. Max and Iris have four children and six grandchildren​

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

Mike Croel, 56 (June 6, 1969)
Lincoln-Sudbury High School
The linebacker was the fourth overall pick in the 1991 draft by Denver, and played in 102 games over seven seasons in the NFL.

Stu Clancy (June 6, 1906 - Sep 24, 1965)
Branford CT native and Holy Cross alum
The tailback spent six seasons in the NFL in the thirties.
Branford Sports Hall of Fame | Stu Clancy

Mark Carlson, 62 (June 6, 1963)
Born in Milford CT; went to the Morgan School in Clinton CT; Boston University, and then Southern Connecticut State
Mark Carlson was an OT for Washington during the 1987 replacement games. He is now a high school coach in North Carolina.

Jack Peavey, 62 (June 6, 1963)
Born in Attleboro; grew up in Foxboro; went to Springfield College and then Troy State.
Peavey was on the Pats practice squad in '85 and played in the three replacement games for Denver in '87.
Jack then went on to spend more than twenty years at various levels coaching high school and college football. He was the head coach at Bishop Feehan High Scholl in Attleboro (2000-03), guiding the Shamrocks to the state finals in each of those four years, with three state championships.

Les Murdock, 84 (June 6, 1941)
Born in Boston
The kicker of (no relation to Roger Murdock) played four games with the Giants in 1967, and also played semi pro football with New Bedford of the Atlantic Coast Football League.

PRO FOOTBALL FRIENDSHIPS ENDURE LIFETIME FOR ST. CLOUD RESIDENT

Les Murdock was very happy with the New York Giants’ victory last Sunday for the National Football Conference championship. “I was concerned because they did not score any touchdowns, but being a former kicker, I was delighted…

www.orlandosentinel.com

Milt Rehnquist (June 6, 1897 - Feb 5, 1956)
A lineman from the early days of pro football, Milt had an 11-year NFL career, which was quite lengthy back in those days. He played from 1928-1931 for Providence, and finished his career the following season at the age of 35 with the Boston Braves. Rehnquist was named All-Pro at center in 1929 for the Steam Roller.




Other NFL players born on June 6 include:

- Bobby Mitchell (1935-2020); Hall of Fame WR/HB/KR for Cleveland and Washington.

- Dave Grayson, (1939-2017); great AFL CB for the Chiefs and Raiders had 48 interceptions.

- Olindo Mare, 52; Dolphins kicker scored 1,555 points over 16 seasons.

- DeAndre Hopkins, 33; five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver registered his seventh 100-yard receiving season in 2023. D-Hop now has 928 receptions (21st most in NFL history) for 12,355 yards (23rd) and 78 touchdowns receiving (35th) in his 11-years in the NFL. He also ranks 13th all-time with an average of 76.3 yards receiving per game.