Today In Patriots History June 23: Happy Birthday to Larry Whigham

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Larry Whigham
Special Teamer Extraordinaire​

Happy 53rd birthday to Larry Whigham
Born June 23, 1972 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Patriot special teamer/safety, 1994-2000; uniform #25
Signed off the Seattle practice squad on September 14, 1994
Pats résumé: seven seasons, 106 games, 139 tackles, one TD; two-time All Pro; seven postseason games; Pats All-1990s Team


Long before Matt Slater and even before Larry Izzo, there was Larry Whigham.


He was a originally a fourth round pick by the Seahawks out of Northeast Louisiana (now known as Louisiana-Monroe), via Pearl River Community College. The Pats signed him as a free agent two weeks into the '94 season after releasing Jason Carthen (who would become more well known as a radio personality and public speaker). Whigham became a two-time All Pro for his special team play, and arguably the best gunner in the NFL for a few years once Steve Tasker neared the end of his career. Larry Whigham played in 106 games with the Patriots, with five starts and four interceptions as their nickel and dime back. Three of those picks came off Dan Marino, including a 60-yard touchdown in a much needed 27-24 victory on November 23, 1997.

Super return still on Whigham's mind

FOXBORO -- Larry Whigham of the Patriots liked everything about Super Bowl XXXI -- except the score. "It was horrible," he said yesterday. "I knew I was going to be double-teamed, but I still felt …

www.southcoasttoday.com

Patriots Return to Winning Form

The New England Patriots finally found a quarterback to win a big game for them--Dan Marino.

articles.latimes.com

PATRIOTS SABOTAGE DOLPHINS

Frostbite was nowhere near the greatest danger nipping at Dan Marino and the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. New England’s bone-chilling defense froze Marino out of the end zone, leaving the Dolphins out in the cold of the Super Bowl…

www.orlandosentinel.com

MARINO’S MAGIC LOSING ITS POWER

He threw more passes in the second half than Big Ten quarterbacks used to throw during their entire collegiate careers. Dan Marino put the ball up 60 times Sunday at Foxboro Stadium. Completed 38 for 389 yards. If the game had lasted…

www.courant.com

Special teams have been -- well -- special

FOXBORO -- Bill Parcells has stressed special teams play since the opening of training camp, and it looks like that emphasis is paying off. Parcells has said every week that special teams play is t…

www.southcoasttoday.com

"Troy (Brown) and I are this team's utility men" he said. "Right now neither one of us have done enough to convince the coaches we should be on the field all the time so we're trying to make things happen when we get out there."​

Not surprisingly Brown and Whigham have traveled similar difficult roads to the NFL.​

Whigham, a fourth round draft pick by Seattle in 1994, signed with the Pats' after being dropped from the Seahawks' practice squad. Brown, an eighth-round selection of the Pats in '93 was waived in '94 before being re-signed two years later.​

"When you get a second chance to make it in the NFL after you've been released, you're going to really fight for a job" said Whigham. "Troy and I really were both very determined the second time around."​

Whigham, who hardly did anything to get noticed as a rookie, began emerging as the Pats' special teams leader in '95 when he racked up 13 tackles and recovered a fumbled punt return by then-teammate David Meggett.​

But it wasn't until the following season that the 6-foot-2 205-pound native of Hattiesburg Miss. became a disruptive force in kicking situations.​

Whigham made 20 tackles, blocked a punt (which Tedy Bruschi returned for a touchdown), forced a fumble (which Corwin Brown returned for a touchdown) and downed three punts inside opponents' 10-yard lines.​

The only downsides of the season were his failure to crack the starting lineup and the way it ended -- in a 35-21 Super Bowl loss to Green Bay.​

Whigham got to play more in five- and six-defensive back sets last season and he responded with a career-best 19 defensive tackles, two sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble.​

The highlight came in late November when he twice picked off passes by Miami's Dan Marino, returning one of them 60 yards for a touchdown.​

"That was a revenge situation for me" he said. "Two seasons before when I was working on a starting job Marino exploited me in a big way in our game at Miami, and I've been a backup ever since. Besides, Marino was always my mother's favorite quarterback."​

Larry Whigham missed just four games in seven years with New England. Unfortunately he was released prior to the 2001 season because Bill Belichick did not want to give Tebucky Jones - a first round pick from the 1998 draft who was going to start for the first time - added pressure with Whigham behind him. In retrospect Belichick should have cut Jones, who was drafted by Pete Carroll - Whigham was certainly the better player. As a result Larry never had the chance to play for that 2001 championship team and receive a well deserved Super Bowl ring. Whigham went on to play for the Bears for two seasons and retired after the 2002 season. He is a very worthy member of the Patriots All-1990s Team. Larry now lives in Houston, where his wife Kenyatta owns a photography studio.

KJanise Photography

Our goal is to personalize your experience and provide you with elegant, timeless images of your loved ones. We take pride in crafting a memorable photography journey. portrait photographer

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Pro Bowler Larry Whigham grew up in Mississippi, not far from the home of Walter Payton, and draws motivation from the legendary Bear.

Larry Whigham is trying to finish a sentence, but it's difficult. Teammates and Bears staff drop by his locker stall to borrow something or trade laughs. Whigham, a fiery, vocal and emotional leader of Bears special teams, gives as good as he gets, and the laughs are easy.

articles.chicagotribune.com

Front Row: Corwin Brown (S-30), Ty Law (CB-24), Bill Belichick, Scooter McGruder (CB-27), Jimmy Hitchcock (CB-31). Back row: Vernon Lewis (DB-43), Otis Smith (CB-45),
Lawyer Milloy (SS-36), Larry Whigham (DB-25), Willie Clay (FS-32), Terry Billups (CB-23), Ricky Reynolds (CB-21), Jerome Henderson (CB-26), Jimmy Hitchcock (CB-31).​

Pearl River CC

Pearl River CC

www.prccathletics.com

Larry Whigham - Former NFL Player - Project Max - Fighting Racism, Antisemitism and Intolerance through Sports

Larry Whigham carved out a standout nine-year NFL career as a special teams ace. After playing college football at Pearl River Community College and the University of Louisiana at Monroe, he was drafted by the Seahawks in 1994 but made his mark with the New England Patriots and later the Chicago...

www.projectmax.club

Larry Whigham Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Larry Whigham Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Larry Whigham Transactions

Larry Whigham - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

​

 

[jmt57]

March 13, 2001:
Thomas, Whigham terminated -- Patriots.com

Long-time special teams standout Larry Whigham and defensive tackle Henry Thomas had their contracts terminated by the Patriots late Tuesday. In addition, the team re-signed exclusive rights free agent Garrett Johnson and waived wide receiver Tony Hamler.​

A reserve safety for seven seasons in New England, Whigham had 120 career tackles, including 88 solo stops and five sacks. His main role was as a special teams gunner. Whigham had 97 special teams tackles. He was voted the AFC Special Teams Player of the Year in 1996 and then earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 1997.​

Originally a fourth-round draft pick for Seattle in 1994, the Northeast Louisiana product had four interceptions and deflected 10 passes for the Patriots. Three of his picks came against future Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino.​

​

Whigham was also a clutch player for the Patriots. In the AFC Championship game against Jacksonville on Jan. 12, 1997 he tackled Jaguar punter Brian Barker at the 4-yard line. The play set up a New England touchdown in the 20-6 win. Whigham had two years remaining on his contract.​

 

[BennyBledsoe]

Hey, we were just talking about him!

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Matt Light​

Happy 47th birthday to Matt Light
Born June 23, 1978 in Greenville, Ohio
Patriot left tackle, 2001-2011; uniform #72
Pats 2nd round (48th overall) selection of the 2001 draft, from Purdue
Pats résumé: 11 seasons, 155 games; 3x Super Bowl champion, 3x Pro Bowler, 2007 First Team All-Pro;
Pats All-2000s Team, Pats 50th Anniversary Team, Pats All-Dynasty Team; Pats Hall of Fame, 2018


The man that Ron Borges infamously overconfidently stated that the Patriots 'settled for and would not help any time soon' was a starter his rookie season, as the Patriots went on to defeat the Rams in Superbowl 36. That was the first of three rings Matt Light would earn, as he would proceed to play in 155 games for the Pats, plus 20 playoff games. The Pats went 15-5 with Light protecting Tom Brady's blindside in the postseason, and he was named to three Pro Bowls - despite battling Crohn's disease.

Matt Light was named to the Patriots All-2000s Team, the Pats 50th Anniversary Team, and in 2018 he was inducted to the Patriots Hall of Fame. Light works with underprivileged and at risk youth, something he has done since his playing days.

The Light Foundation | Inspiration for Generations

In 2001, former NFL player and 3x Superbowl Champion, Matt Light, and his wife Susie, established The Light Foundation to help young people develop the skills, values, and mindset they need to create a meaningful and productive future.

www.mattlight72.com

Matt Light's former teammates, coaches recall best pranks -- Patriots.com

Photo Gallery - Matt Light: A Career Retrospective -- Patriots.com

Matt Light voted by fans into Patriots Hall of Fame -- Patriots.com

Matt Light Patriots Hall of Fame Induction Highlights -- Patriots.com

Purdue Boilermakers Football, Basketball & Recruiting

The latest Purdue Boilermakers news, recruiting, transfers, and NIL information from on3.com

purdue.rivals.com

The No Fun League has disappeared the videos, but on Nov 23, 2008 Matt Light had enough and whaled on Channing Crowder.
The Patriots defeated the Dolphins that day by the score of 48-28 to avenge the early season 'Wildcat Game' upset loss.​

Teammate Explains Why Matt Light Lost It, Pulled Channing Crowder's Hair: Joey Porter

Unless you were a Patriots fan or a self-loathing Dolphins supporter, you probably missed the live showing of Channing Crowder and Matt Light offering their interpretation of the Pacman-bodyguard hotel bathroom cat fight. You’ve no doubt seen the replay, although it’s still not clear what...

www.nbcconnecticut.com

Unless you were a Patriots fan or a self-loathing Dolphins supporter, you probably missed the live showing of Channing Crowder and Matt Light offering their interpretation of the Pacman-bodyguard hotel bathroom cat fight. You've no doubt seen the replay, although it's still not clear what precipitated the whole thing.​

Thankfully, the Boston Herald's Karen Guregian has some answers, via Light's offensive line mate, Logan Mankins:​

"He was doing a good job, drilling [Chowder] right in the head," Mankins said of Light, "so kudos to Matt." ...​

As to why the fight happened: "Any time you have a team with the guy 55 (Joey Porter), he just won't shut up the entire game," Mankins said. "Then I think some of the other guys are starting to play the way he does."​

Mankins also figures that Light won't face a suspension, just a fine. While whaling away on a dude not wearing a helmet might seem like an offense worth of a little time away from the game, as Mankins rightly points out, a precedent has been set. A few weeks ago, John Henderson actually tried to remove Andrew Whitworth's eyeballs and all it cost him was $15,000.​

Fire Ron Borges, the Broadsheet Bully

Fire Ron Borges, the Broadsheet Bully By Kerry J. Byrne, publisher, ColdHardFootballFacts.com and Bruce Allen, publisher, BostonSportsMedia.com. Update: Ron Borges “Retires” From Globe They’r…

bostonsportsmedia.com

Matt Light: Blocking Out the Pain

When the New England Patriots drafted Matt Light out of Purdue in 2001, the offensive lineman couldn’t really even call himself a fan of the sport. | SUCCESS

www.success.com

Light reveals decade-long battle with Crohn's

Matt Light hopes his successful battle with Crohn's disease will inspire others.

www.espn.com

How This Former NFL Player is Tackling Crohn’s Disease

Matt Light likes a good challenge, and when it comes to his battle with a severe inflammatory bowel disease, he’s been successful.

www.futureofpersonalhealth.com

Matt Light Is Still Protecting the Blind Side

The retired Patriots tackle runs a summer camp for disadvantaged teens in rural Ohio. But that’s just where the real work begins

www.si.com

 

[jmt57]

Where is Matt Light, legendary Patriots jokester and avid hunter?

Remember Matt Light, the Patriots legend who was caught hunting behind Gillette Stadium? Here's what he's doing now.

www.masslive.com

Patriots legend: I was hunting behind Gillette until Bill Belichick found out

A Patriots Hall of Famer said he was hunting turkeys on the property at Gillette Stadium for quite some time — until Bill Belichick caught wind of it.

www.masslive.com

Gillette Stadium can serve a lot of purposes. There are obviously football and soccer games, but it has also hosted hockey, lacrosse, monster truck events, concerts and more. There are plenty of meeting spaces to host corporate events and things like high school proms. It’s a multi-purpose stadium.​

However, Patriots Hall of Famer Matt Light also turned it into something unique to him: A hunting ground.​

On Julian Edelman’s Games With Names podcast, Light said he was hunting turkeys on the property for quite some time during his playing days — until Bill Belichick caught wind of it one morning.​

“I would hunt right behind the stadium,” Light said. “I pulled up and I hunted that property forever because (Robert) Kraft was like ‘I don’t know anything about what you’re doing.’ I’m like, all right, cool. It’s like a green light, right? I went in one morning, I’ve got my bow and everything ready to rock. (A turkey) sits right next to my decoy. I shoot him. I breast him out, I take him in and I always put him in the fridge there in the meal room.​

“As I’m eating breakfast, Bill walks in. He’s like, ‘You can’t have a (expletive) weapon on stadium property.’ I go, ‘Bill, it says you can’t have a handgun. You can’t have a gun. I had a bow and arrow.’ This was awesome, he goes, ‘You want to argue with me about what the rules say?’ The guy is pretty good at knowing what the rules are. When he said that I started second-guessing myself, I’m like ‘Aw, damn maybe it did say weapon.’”​

Matt Light | The Patriots Hall of Fame

www.patriotshalloffame.com

Matt Light Selected as 2018 Hall of Fame Inductee | The Patriots Hall of Fame

www.patriotshalloffame.com

Matt Light Inducted Into Patriots Hall Of Fame
2:13 WBZ News Highlight Video



Patriots Hall of Fame Induction of Matt Light
1:15:04 Full Video

 

[Love The Drake]

Underrated under appreciated player.

I always was thankful we had him

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
A Long Snapper​

Happy 55th birthday to Mike Bartrum
Born June 23, 1970 in Gallipolis, Ohio; hometown Pomeroy, Ohio
Patriot long snapper/tight end, 1996-1999; uniform #86
Acquired in trade from Green Bay on August 25, 1996 for past considerations
Pats résumé: four seasons, 57 games; four postseason games


Mike Bartrum was a precursor to Mike Vrabel: with the Patriots he had only four receptions, but two were for touchdowns. Over his career the Marshall grad (and teammate of Troy Brown) had 11 receptions with six touchdowns; Vrabel is the only player with more TD and fewer than 15 receptions in NFL history.


Aside from being known as a precision long snapper throughout his career, among his highlights in New England include a one-yard TD reception from Drew Bledsoe on October 6, 1996 in a 46-38 victory over the Ravens in Baltimore. Two weeks later his first career forced fumble on the punt coverage team at Indy was recovered by Marrio Grier, and converted into a Curtis Martin touchdown in a 27-9 win. Mike also had a fumble recovery for a turnover in the 20-6 AFCCG victory over Jacksonville on January 12, 1997.


Bartrum was so accurate with his long snaps that a Philadelphia television affiliate filmed him with some stunts:

​

Mike Bartrum suffered a neck injury in a 2006 week 12 game at Indianapolis, and retired soon after. He worked as the football coach at his small (pop. 1,573) hometown in southeast Ohio for seven years, then spent two years as an assistant tight ends coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. Since 2021 Bartrum has worked at another alma mater, Marshall University, as a senior analyst and special assistant.

1999 Patriots Media Guide

Super Bowl memories: Bartrum played for both the Eagles and Chiefs during career

From his humble beginnings as a star three-sport athlete for Meigs Local High School. Mike Bartrum found himself in the Super Bowl of 1997 with the Patriots and

wchstv.com

Mike Bartrum - Senior Analyst/Director of Player Development - Staff Directory - Marshall University Athletics

Bartrum, another Thundering Herd Hall of Famer (2007), also returned to Marshall Football in 2021. He was the Assistant Tight Ends Coach for the Philadelphia...

herdzone.com

Mike Bartrum Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Mike Bartrum Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Mike Bartrum Transactions

Mike Bartrum - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Chris Floyd​

Happy 50th birthday to Chris Floyd
Born June 23, 1975 in Detroit
Patriot special teamer/fullback, 1998-2000; uniform #37
Pats 3rd round (81st overall) selection of the 1988 draft, from Michigan
Pats résumé: three seasons, 40 games (2 starts); 33 yards on 14 carries, 43 yards on four receptions


Chris Floyd was part of Michigan's 1997 national championship team, in the backfield primarily blocking for Chris Howard and Anthony Thomas. Floyd played in all 16 games with two starts in his rookie season, used mostly on special teams. After an attempt to find a role for Floyd at tight end failed, Bill Belichick cut Floyd in late November of 2000. The finale was not pretty; it was a penalty filled game in Detroit in front of Floyd's hometown friends and family that dropped the Pats record to 3-9. That was the same game when Tom Brady threw his first NFL pass.

Floyd totaled 14 rushes for 33 yards in 40 games for New England, with four receptions for 43 yards. He played two more games in 2000 with Cleveland, and then his pro football career was over. As of 2012 Floyd was back in Ann Arbor, working in the Parks and Recreation Department in the day and as a bouncer at night.


On a side note, the first link above lays out the reality of how bad the drafts were for the Patriots in the three Pete Carroll/Bobby Grier years, and how the club botched the bounty of draft picks received when the Jets signed Bill Parcells and Curtis Martin.

2000 Patriots Media Guide

Chris Floyd Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Chris Floyd Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Chris Floyd Transactions

Chris Floyd - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Antonio Gibson​

Happy 27th birthday to Antonio Gibson
Born June 23, 1998 in Stockbridge, Georgia; hometown McDonough, GA
Patriot running back/kick returner, 2024-present; uniform #4
Signed as an unrestricted veteran free agent (Washington) on March 11, 2024
Pats résumé: one season, 17 games (3 starts); 538 yards rushing, 4.5 ypc; 23 receptions; 744 yards from scrimmage


It will be interesting to see how training camp and preseason unfolds in regards to the 2025 Patriot offensive backfield. Rhamondre Stevenson was on the field far more (240 touches, 599 offensive snaps) than Gibson (143 touches, 359 offensive snaps), but Gibson did a better job of securing the football as well as being more productive in the passing game.

The additions of second round draft pick TreVeyon Henderson, undrafted rookie Lan Larison, undrafted FB Brock Lampe and veteran special teamer Trayveon Williams to the running back corps should make for some interesting roster and playing time intrigue.


March 11, 2024:

Patriots agree to deal with Antonio Gibson, eyeing him as a third-down back: Source

The Patriots found their new third-down running back, agreeing to terms with Gibson. This means Ezekiel Elliott won't return in 2024.

www.nytimes.com

This one is simple. The Patriots have long valued a true third-down back who can pass block and catch passes. But ever since James White retired, the team struggled to fill that role, which occasionally put too much on Stevenson’s plate.​

His early seasons as a lead back were impressive — Gibson ran for 795 yards and 11 touchdowns as a rookie in Washington, then 1,037 yards in 2021 — but he became more of a versatile receiving back in recent seasons.​

A year ago, Gibson’s role was changed and he finished with more receiving yards (a career-high 389) than rushing yards (265). One concern, though, is his fumbling. He put the ball on the ground four times last season on 113 touches.​

Another point worth noting is that Gibson is a very good pass protector, so he fits the mold of a Patriots third-down back well. He’s not coming to New England to take away carries from Stevenson, but rather to carve out a specific role in obvious passing situations.​

2024 impact​

Stevenson is still the team’s No. 1 running back. That doesn’t change. The Patriots have high hopes for what he can do in new offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt’s scheme, which borrows largely from the zone concepts the Cleveland Browns utilized in building a strong running game.​

But even if Gibson’s role is quite well defined, it’s still meaningful depth at an important spot. Gibson is only two years removed from a 1,000-yard season. If Stevenson gets hurt, Gibson can take on a larger role. Gibson turns 26 this summer.​

Antonio Gibson Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Antonio Gibson Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Antonio Gibson Transactions

Antonio Gibson - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[TheRainMaker]

Larry Whigham is by far my favorite special teams player. Matt Slater gets all the attention, but he wasn't impactful like Whigham was who could also make plays as a DB.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Buck Rogers​

Happy 65th birthday to Doug Rogers
Born June 23, 1960 in Chico, California; hometown Bakersfield, CA
Patriot defensive end, 1983-1984; uniform #65
Claimed off waivers from Atlanta on September 14, 1983
Pats résumé: two seasons, 22 games (no starts); 2½ sacks


The former second round pick from Stanford played on special teams, and on the line on passing downs for the Pats. Over his first two seasons in Foxboro he played in 22 games, but was slowed down by shoulder and foot injuries that ended up requiring surgery. The foot injury kept him off the field the following offseason as well and the Pats eventually waived him from the Physically Unable to Perform list in mid-October of 1985. Rogers played closer to home for the 49ers in 1986, then retired at the start of camp the following year.

Douglas 'Buck' Rodgers played in 41 NFL games, plus one postseason game each with Atlanta and San Francisco.

Sept 25, 1983: QB Cliff Stoudt #18 of the Steelers drops back to pass as Pittsburgh offensive linemen Steve Courson #77 and Mike Webster #52 block defensive lineman Lester Williams #72 of the Patriots. To the left Pats DE Doug Rogers #65 pursues the play during a game at Three Rivers Stadium that the Patriots won, 28-23.


1984 Patriots Media Guide

Doug Rogers Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Doug Rogers Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Doug Rogers Transactions

Doug Rogers (American football) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Greg Robinson
Greg Robinson-Randall
Greg Randall​

Happy 47th birthday to Greg Randall
Born June 23, 1978 in Galveston, Texas; hometown La Marque, TX
Patriot offensive tackle, 2000-2002; uniform #77 ('00), #64 ('01-'02)
Pats 4th round (127th overall) pick of the 2000 draft, from Michigan State
Pats résumé: three seasons, 35 games (23 starts); three starts in the 2001 postseason; one ring


Greg Randall started four games as a rookie and then every game in 2001 for the super bowl champions. The following season Randall started just three games before being replaced by Kenyatta Jones, a 2001 4th round pick by the Pats. Randall was a healthy scratch, inactive for the final nine games of the 2002 season.


The Patriots traded Randall to Houston in March of 2003 for a fifth round draft pick. That pick was traded again and ended up netting center Dan Koppen. Randall started all 16 games for the Texans but was out of the NFL the following year; he later played in the CFL and Arena Football League. Over three seasons Randall appeared in 35 games with 23 starts for the Patriots, plus three playoff games. He earned a ring as part of the '01 team that upset the Greatest Showoffs on Turf in Super Bowl 36.

Regarding the changes in his surname, Greg was known as Greg Robinson before extending his last name to Robinson-Randall, in order to honor his father, who had died from cancer when Greg was just five years old. He changed his surname to Randall in 2002.

2002 Patriots Media Guide

Greg Randall Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Greg Randall Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Greg Randall Transactions

Greg Randall - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Other June 23 Birthdays​

Happy 30th birthday to Colby Gossett
Born June 23, 1995 in Cumming, Georgia
Patriot guard, 2019; uniform #67
Signed to the practice squad on Sept 2, 2019
Pats résumé: nine days on the practice squad


Colby Gossett was a 2018 sixth round draft pick by Minnesota, from Appalachian State. He played in five games with four starts at left guard for Arizona prior to arriving in Foxborough. His stay was not long, as the Patriots released him nine days later to make room for defensive backs Nate Brooks and Obi Melifonwu to the practice squad. Gossett played in 31 games for the Falcons in 2021-2022, and is now a free agent after finishing the 2024 season on the Saints' practice squad.

Sept 2, 2019:

Patriots Sign Two Offensive Linemen To Fill Out 10-Man Practice Squad - NESN.com

FOXBORO, Mass. — The New England Patriots filled out their 10-man practice squad Monday by signing two offensive linemen. The Patriots added guards Najee Toran and Colby Gossett on Monday. They join tight end Stephen Anderson, defensive linemen Nick Thurman, Gerri Green and Ufomba Kamalu...

nesn.com

Football: North alum Gossett signed by New England Patriots

North Forsyth grad Colby Gossett was signed Monday by the New England Patriots, just one day after being released by the Arizona Cardinals.

www.forsythnews.com

Sept 11, 2019:
Patriots Sign OL Marshall Newhouse; Announce Practice Squad Moves -- Patriots.com
The Patriots announced that they have signed free agent OL Marshall Newhouse to the 53-man roster and signed DBs Obi Melifonwu and Nate Brooks to the practice squad. In addition, New England has released OL Colby Gossett from the practice squad.

Colby Gossett Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Colby Gossett Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Colby Gossett Transactions

Colby Gossett Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Colby Gossett contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Career Earnings: $2,845,355

Colby Gossett - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Happy 34th birthday to Jon Halapio
Born June 23, 1991 in St Petersburg, Florida
Patriot guard, 2014 & 2016 offseasons; uniform #59
Pats 6th round (179th overall) selection of the 2014 draft, from Florida
Pats résumé: two training camps and preseasons

The draft pick used on the former Gator was acquired along with a fourth round pick (used on Bryan Stork) from Jacksonville, in exchange for New England's third round pick (#93 overall, Brandon Linder, the Jaguars' starting center for eight years).

Jon Halapio was cut at the end of his rookie training camp; after that he spent two seasons in the Fall Experimental Football League (2014 with the Boston Brawlers and 2015 with the Brooklyn Bolts). Halapio was on Denver's practice squad for a few weeks, and in Arizona for their 2015 training camp. The Pats re-signed Halapio in the 2016 offseason, but once again he was cut at the end of training camp. After that he was primarily with the Giants, bouncing back and forth between their practice squad and the 53-man roster. Halapio finished 2020 on Denver's practice squad and the last stop of his pro football career was in 2021 on the 49ers practice squad.

Jon Halapio Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Jon Halapio Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Jon Halapio Transactions

Jon Halapio Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Jon Halapio contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Career Earnings: $2,080,688

Jon Halapio - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Happy 35th birthday to Keavon Milton
Born June 23, 1990 in Canton, Texas
Patriot offensive lineman, 2015-2016; uniform #74
Signed to the practice squad on Nov 10, 2015
Pats résumé: one season on the practice squad, plus one offseason/training camp

Keavon Milton was signed as an undrafted rookie by New Orleans in 2013, from Louisiana-Monroe (NE Louisiana). He spent his rookie season with Cleveland, appearing in eight games. Prior to arriving in Foxborough he was on Seattle's practice squad, playing in one game with the Seahawks in 2014.

Milton spent the last two months of the 2015 season on the Pats practice squad, but was never elevated. He was with the Patriots for the entire 2016 offseason before being released at the end of camp, on August 30. Milton was later on the practice squads for Pittsburgh and Dallas, but was never able to get on the field for another NFL game. He finished his pro football career in the CFL with the British Columbia Lions in 2017.


Nov 10, 2015:

Patriots sign pair of offensive linemen to their practice squad

Keavon Milton and Torrian Wilson are added to the team's practice squad on Tuesday.

www.patriotledger.com

The New England Patriots announced that they have signed OL Keavon (KEY-von) Milton and OL Torrian Wilson to the practice squad. In addition, the Patriots released WR Austin Hill and DB Floyd Raven, Sr. from the practice squad.​

Milton, 25, originally entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with the New Orleans Saints in 2013 out of Louisiana-Monroe. He was released by the Saints at the end of training camp and claimed off waivers by Cleveland. The 6-foot-4, 324-pounder played in eight games for the Browns in 2013, on special teams and as a blocking tight end. Milton was released by Cleveland at the end of training camp in 2014 and was signed to the Seattle practice squad on Oct. 29. The Seahawks signed Milton to the 53-man roster on Dec. 20. Milton dressed but did not play in one game and was inactive for the regular-season finale and all three Seattle postseason games. He was released by Seattle on Sept. 5, 2015.​

Keavon Milton Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Keavon Milton Transactions

Keavon Milton Contract Details, Salary Cap Charges, Bonus Money, and Contract History | Over The Cap

Keavon Milton contract and salary cap details, including signing bonus, guaranteed salary, dead money, roster bonuses, and contract history

overthecap.com

Career Earnings: $670,535

Keavon Milton - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Other players born on this date with a New England connection:

Don Panciera (June 23, 1927 - Feb 9, 2012)
Born in Westerly, Rhode Island; LaSalle High School, Providence; Boston College

The QB was a 4th round draft pick by Philadelphia in 1949, and played pro football from 1949-53. He then founded and owned Panciera Chevrolet in Wakefield RI before retiring.

Donald Panciera Obituary (2012) - Westerly, RI - The Westerly Sun

View Donald M. Panciera Sr.'s obituary, send flowers and sign the guestbook.

www.legacy.com

John Bredice (June 23, 1934 - Oct 1, 1997)
Born in Waterbury, Connecticut; Notre Dame High School, West Haven CT; Boston University

A QB converted to end at BU, Bredice played in 12 games with nine starts after being drafted by Philadelphia in 1956, then served two years in the Army. He returned to Philly in 1959, spending the season on the taxi squad, nor did he catch on with the 1960 New York Titans. His ten-catch rookie season was highlighted by a 40-yard touchdown reception that provided the winning margin in a 35-21 victory over the Steelers on Oct 14, 1956.

Hall of Fame - Boston University Athletics

John Bredice Sport: Football Year Graduated: 1956 Year Inducted: 1978 John Bredice was an All-State quarterback at Notre Dame High School in West Haven, CT, ...

goterriers.com

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
20th Century June 23 News​

June 23, 1979:
Patriots activate Steve Corbett off the retired list

The Pats had selected the guard from Boston College with the 30th overall pick in the 1974 draft. He spent all of his rookie season on IR, then appeared in 14 games the following year. Corbett again spent all of 1976 on IR and retired due to his injuries. The attempted comeback did not come to fruition. After suffering muscle spasms in training camp at Bryant College, Corbett retired for good on July 20, 1979.

Despite his brief NFL career, Steve Corbett is a member of two Hall of Fames:

Corbett held the line in Dover and beyond

DOVER — Even with interest in sports arguably at an all-time high, Steve Corbett longs for the day when the entire town came out to Dunaway Field to watch the St. Thomas Aquinas High School football …

www.fosters.com

Steve Corbett (2023) - Varsity Club Hall of Fame - Boston College Athletics

Boston College Athletics

bceagles.com

June 23, 1979:
Patriots sign free agent Tom McLaughlin

McLaughlin was an undrafted quarterback from Iowa. Looks like he also spent parts of the offseason with the Lions ('78), Patriots ('79) and Oilers ('80). One site says he was a punter rather than a QB. That might make sense since his stats throwing the ball don't merit a tryout: 7 TD, 24 interceptions from 1975 to 1977 with the Hawkeyes.

Tom McLaughlin College Stats, School, Draft, Gamelog, Splits | College Football at Sports-Reference.com

Check out Tom McLaughlin's College Stats, School, Draft, Gamelog, Splits and More College Stats at Sports-Reference.com

www.sports-reference.com

1979 New England Patriots season - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
June 23 News from the Aughts​

June 23, 2003:
Patriots Sign RB Mike Cloud

Free agent running back Mike Cloud signed with the New England Patriots on Monday. If he makes the roster, he would have to sit out the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL's steroid policy.

Cloud's agent, Jonathan Feinsod, has said a protein supplement caused his client to test positive for the banned steroid nandrolone late last season. Cloud was given a four-game suspension.


Patriots Sign RB Mike Cloud -- The Edwardsville Intelligencer

Free agent running back Mike Cloud signed with the New England Patriots on Monday. If he makes the roster, he would have to sit out the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL's steroid policy.​

The career leading rusher at Boston College, Cloud was drafted in the second round by Kansas City in 1999. He played 56 games for the Chiefs, starting six.​

Cloud has 121 career carries for 381 yards and four touchdowns. He has caught 11 passes for 89 yards.​

Cloud officially signs -- Patriots.com

The former Boston College standout and Kansas City backup was on hand for a tryout during the team's recent mini-camp earlier this month and now will return for training camp July 23.​

"Mike couldn't be happier," said Cloud's agent, Jonathan Feinsod. "He's looking forward to the season and continuing his career for years to come."​

Cloud, who grew up in nearby Portsmouth, R.I., still faces a major obstacle in his quest to earn a roster spot with New England because of his impending four-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. He refused to discuss the situation during mini-camp but Feinsod explained that his client took a contaminated supplement and had his appeal denied despite evidence to support his case.​

Evidently, the problem arose when he ingested a protein powder that contained Nandrolene, which is a banned substance. Cloud's camp had the powder tested and learned that it was tainted with the steroid. Even though the league agreed with his findings, its was forced to uphold the suspension because of liability issues.​

The suspension won't kick in until he survives final cuts. At that time, the Patriots will place him on the reserve/suspended list and he will miss the first four games of the 2003 season. He'll be able to take part fully in training camp and in preseason games but once the regular season begins he'll be forced to the sidelines for a month.​

With Cloud's addition, the Patriots backfield figures to be a bit deeper. He'll join incumbent Antowain Smith, Kevin Faulk, J.R. Redmond, Antwoine Womack and rookie free agent Derek Watson. Faulk is slated for third-down and situational use while Redmond tries to resurrect his flailing career. Womack is trying to prove he's healthy after missing his rookie year with a torn ACL and could also see time at fullback. Watson is a long shot to make the team.​

Cloud, who spent his first four NFL seasons with the Chiefs, started six of his 56 career games with 121 career carries for 381 yards and four touchdowns. The former second-round pick received little interest as an unrestricted free agent after backing up Pro Bowler Priest Holmes the past two years in Kansas City.​

"It's been frustrating, but given my situation I can understand why," Cloud said during mini-camp. "I am here trying to learn the plays and get myself ready. I am just learning the system as quickly as possible so when I am put in a situation I can respond and I am not out there guessing what I have to do so I can let my talent come through."​

Head Coach Bill Belichick is away from his office and was not available for comment on the Cloud signing but he did say during mini-camp that the suspension would not be a key factor in the team's decision. "I don't think that is going to hold up the process because we are aware of it and we know what it is," he said. "If we don't want to deal with it, then we wouldn't be at this point right now."​

Obviously Belichick was true to his word and Cloud is now a Patriot.​

June 23, 2004:

Patriots sign their 3rd pick, DT Hill

FOXBORO — The New England Patriots signed second-round draft pick Marquise Hill yesterday. Hill, a 6-foot-6, 297-pound defensive tackle out of Louisiana State, was the team's third selection, the 6…

www.capecodtimes.com

The New England Patriots signed second-round draft pick Marquise Hill yesterday.​

Hill, a 6-foot-6, 297-pound defensive tackle out of Louisiana State, was the team's third selection, the 63rd pick overall.​

Hill, 22, started every game at defensive end as a junior in 2003 when LSU won the national championship, and 12 of 13 games as a sophomore in 2002.​

He had 108 career tackles, 58 solo, including 10 sacks. Hill recorded five sacks in Louisiana State's final seven games last season, including one for a 13-yard loss against Georgia in the Southeastern Conference title game and another for an 8-yard loss in the BCS national championship game against Oklahoma.​

June 23, 2005:
Pats Sign RB Chad Morton, G Bryan Anderson and Two 2005 Draft Picks -- Patriots.com

Bryan Anderson, 25, has played in four games in his professional career and joins the Patriots from the Chicago Bears, where he spent the bulk of the 2003 and 2004 seasons on the practice squad. The 6-foot-4-inch, 330-pound offensive lineman was originally selected by the Bears in the seventh round (261st overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft. He spent the first 15 games of the 2003 season on the Bears' practice squad and was signed to the active roster for the 2003 season finale but was listed among the day-of-game inactives. Last season, the University of Pittsburgh product spent the season's first 12 games on Chicago's practice squad before he was signed to the active roster and played a reserve role in the final four games of 2004.​

Anderson would be waived at the start of camp on July 29 with an undisclosed injury, and never signed with another NFL team after that.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
More recent June 23 News​

June 23, 2010:
Linebacker Gary Guyton is re-signed to a two-year extension

Pats, Guyton reach two-year extension

Gary Guyton is signed through 2011.

www.boston.com

Inside linebacker Gary Guyton, one of a long line of undrafted free agents who have claimed a spot on the Patriots’ roster, has received a two-year contract extension from the club that includes a $650,000 signing bonus.​

Guyton was an exclusive-rights free agent, which means all New England had to do was offer him a one-year tender which would have paid him $470,000 for the coming season.​

“We thought the way Gary had performed, stepping in to call the signals when Jerod Mayo was out and playing 84.5 percent of the defensive snaps, he (had earned) something more than the minimum, and they agreed,” Kopelman said, adding that at the time New England told them they had other things to take care of first. “They’ve always been true to their word with us, which is great.”​

Under the terms of the extension, Guyton will earn $505,000 in 2010 and $1 million in 2011, and also receive a $650,000 signing bonus.​

Guyton registered 85 tackles and 1.5 sacks last season, starting all 16 games in his second full season with the Patriots. He signed in 2008 as an undrafted free agent from Georgia Tech.​

​

June 23, 2014:

​

Patriots sign first-rounder Dominique Easley

And we're down to five.

www.nbcsports.com

Only injury concerns kept Easley from being drafted higher, as he was exceptionally productive at Florida when well, and his ability to create pressure from inside will be a good fit for a versatile Patriots front.​

Patriots Sign First-Round Pick Dominique Easley

The New England Patriots announced Monday that they have signed first-round pick Dominique Easley.

www.cbsnews.com

The New England Patriots announced Monday that they have signed first-round pick Dominique Easley.​

Easley, 22, was drafted by the Patriots with the 29th pick in the 2014 draft, after Easley played four years at Florida. While a Gator, Easley recorded 81 tackles and 5.5 sacks in 32 games.​

Easley participated in one of the team's minicamp sessions last week despite not yet agreeing to a contract, but he'll be signed on officially when training camp opens on July 23.​

The defensive tackle is working himself back into football shape after suffering a torn ACL last year.​

The Patriots also announced that they have signed rookie free agent offensive lineman Chris Martin. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound tackle originally signed with the Texans but was released on May 27.​

News From The South

Southern Living reports on celebrities, entertainment, music, travel, food, and other news from the South.

www.southernliving.com

A former professional football player is the newest member of the Seminole County Fire Department.​

Offensive tackle Chris Martin played for University of Central Florida and was a member of five NFL teams before the death of his two-year-old son Gunner led him to pursue a career as a firefighter.​

“On April 6, 2016, my wife and I found our son unfortunately at the bottom of a pool,” Martin, 33, told Click Orlando. “We had a pool in the backyard. We weren’t really aware of the different preventative measures we could take to prevent it. That’s when I realized that’s what I want to do when I’m done [with football].”​

June 23, 2015:

Thread 'Official Brady Appeal Thread: D-Day Tuesday June 23rd'

Jun 23, 2015

For readability puposes, here is the official thread for today. The previous one was getting too long.

Have at it!

• shmessy
• Replies: 1,057
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

G

Thread 'Florio Rips NFL Response to Mortensen Report'

Jun 23, 2015

Tough for me to disagree:

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.co...nsistent-reactions-to-erroneous-espn-reports/

The disparity between today’s rapid-fire disagreement with Schefter’s procedural nuance and January’s silence in response to Mortensen’s critical factual assertion is stunning. And it lends credence to the belief that the NFL deliberately leaked false information in order to pin the Patriots against ropes that simply weren’t there.

If Aiello or anyone else from the NFL had responded swiftly to Mortensen’s erroneous report with the true...

• Gator Mike
• Replies: 155
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

June 23, 2019:
Former Boston Patriot linebacker Jack Rudolph passes away in Valdosta, Georgia

John Lawrence Rudolph (Jack) Obituary June 23, 2019 - McLane Funeral & Cremation Services

View John Lawrence Rudolph (Jack)'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

www.mclanefuneralservices.com

John Lawrence Rudolph (Jack) passed away on June 23rd 2019 at the age of 82.​

Born in St. Louis Missouri in 1937, Jack moved at an early age to Atlanta, Georgia where he spent his childhood and college days. Growing up in the shadow of Georgia Tech’s Historic Grant Field, Jack was privileged to spend his middle school years selling programs and peanuts in the stands on games days. He attended Grady High School and was a standout student-athlete in football basketball, and track earning a football scholarship to The Georgia Institute of Technology. While at Georgia Tech, he was a three time letter winner from 1957-1959. After graduating, he went on to play in the American Football League and was a member of the original Boston Patriot football team from 1960-65 and also an original member of the Miami Dolphins in 1966.​

In 1965, Jack married Marsha Lou Harris and they settled in Valdosta, Georgia. Jack spent 31 years as a coach and teacher at Valdosta High School. As a defensive coordinator for 25 of those years, his defenses recorded 111 shut-outs and held opponents to an average of 8.3 points per game. He was a part of Valdosta Wildcat teams that won 11 state and 5 national championships. He attributed this success to an excellent staff, exceptional players, and game changing fans. Jack was arguably the greatest High School Defensive Coordinator of all time in the state of Georgia. He was honored to be inducted into the Valdosta/Lowndes County Sports Hall of Fame. He was known for his intimidating presence and football IQ. Although his players feared him, they knew that he loved them and had their best interest in mind and they played for him with passion. More important than the wins was the influence he had on hundreds of young people throughout his life.​

June 23, 2022:
The genesis of Zappe-Mania

Patriots sign fourth round draft pick Bailey Zappe to a four-year, $4.3m contract with a $647k signing bonus
Second round draft pick Tyquan Thornton also signs his rookie contract, a 4-year deal worth $7,053,860, with $4,040,710 fully guaranteed which included a $2,310,080 signing bonus.

Patriots Sign Prolific College QB

After a record-setting career at Western Kentucky that saw Zappe throw for 5,967 yards, 62 TDs and just 11 interceptions in 2021. The yards and TD marks set FBS single-season records. Despite his prolific passing performance in 2021, Zappe wasn’t considered by most to be among the best quarterbacks in the NFL Draft.​

Thus, he slipped to the fourth round where the Patriots snapped him up to play third string for the team in 2022.​

Mac Jones is fully entrenched as the team’s starter barring an injury after a promising rookie season. Jones threw for 3,801 yards, 22 TDs and 13 interceptions in his first year in the NFL.​

Done Deal: Patriots Sign QB Bailey Zappe

Quarterback Bailey Zappe becomes the final 2022 NFL draft selection to sign his rookie deal with the New England Patriots.

www.si.com

And then there were … none.​

The New England Patriots announced on Thursday that they have signed quarterback Bailey Zappe to his rookie deal. Zappe had been the last of New England’s 2022 NFL Draft class to agree to terms with the club. First-round choice Cole Strange signed his deal on Wednesday, while second-round pick Tyquan Thornton made it official with the team on Thursday.​

The Patriots raised more than a few eyebrows when they selected the Western Kentucky quarterback with the 137th pick in the fourth round of the draft. At the time, Zappe’s selection gave the Pats four quarterbacks on their roster for the upcoming season. In fact, many began to wonder whether the Patriots had squandered valuable draft capital by overindulging in a position of strength.​

However, New England decided to thin out the mix at the position, sending reserve quarterback Jarrett Stidham and a seventh-round draft pick to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a sixth-round selection. The move seemingly paved the way for Zappe to earn a spot on the team’s positional depth chart for 2022. He is expected to compete with veteran backup Brian Hoyer as the Pats second option, behind starter Mac Jones.​

Zappe had an overwhelmingly successful statistical season at Western Kentucky in 2021. He set FBS single-season records with 62 passing touchdowns and 5,967 passing yards. The 23-year-old is also a strong logistical fit within New England’s style. Much like Jones, Zappe has a quick release and is an accurate short-to-intermediate passer when throwing in rhythm. He moves well within the pocket and demonstrates a good eye for recognizing pressure. In order to be an effective pro, he must improve upon his accuracy when throwing on the move.​

June 23, 2025:

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
20th Century June 23 News​

June 23, 1979:
Patriots activate Steve Corbett off the retired list

Happy 35th birthday to Keavon Milton
ne starts after being drafted by the Eagles in 1946, but never played again after his ten-catch, one-touchdown rookie season.

June 23, 2019:
Former Boston Patriot linebacker Jack Rudolph passes away in Valdosta, Georgia