Today In Patriots History Feb 14: Happy Birthday to Dante and Drew

[jmt57]

Valentine's Day is also the birth date of two New England Patriots Hall of Famers

Today in Patriots History
Dante Scarnecchia​

Happy birthday to Dante Scarnecchia. If there is one thing that head coach Ron Meyer got right, it was bringing Scar from SMU to New England. Arguably the greatest offensive line coach in the history of the National Football League, Dante Scarnecchia spent 34 years as a coach with the Patriots. In 1992 he perhaps pulled his most improbable stunt, somehow cajoling two wins out of that moribund team after **** MacPherson was hospitalized. (Which begs the question: why is an interim coach credited with wins when taking over in midseason after the previous coach was fired, but Scar was never credited with those nearly-impossible victories?)

Dante Scarnecchia Named as a Contributor to Patriots Hall of Fame
1:13 announcement by Robert Kraft
​

Happy 78th birthday to Dante Scarnecchia
Born February 14, 1948 in Los Angeles; hometwown Montebello, CA
Patriot coach and consultant, 1982-88, 1991-2019
Hired as a ST/TE coach approx January 20, 1982
32nd member of the Patriots Hall of Fame, 2023

Dante Scarnecchia | The Patriots Hall of Fame

www.patriotshalloffame.com

Dante Scarnecchia spent 36 years in the NFL, including 34 seasons with the Patriots (1982-88, 1991-2013, 2016-19). He joined the Patriots as an assistant on Ron Meyer’s staff in 1982. He spent his first six seasons coaching special teams and tight ends before joining the Indianapolis Colts staff as offensive line coach in 1989. He returned to the Patriots after two seasons with the Colts and remained with the team until retiring following the 2013 season. He was rehired as the offensive line coach in 2016 before retiring for the second time after the 2019 season. Scarnecchia was the longest tenured NFL coach when he retired following the 2019 season. The last NFL coach to garner at least 30 seasons with one team was **** Hoak, who spent an NFL-record 35 seasons as an assistant with Pittsburgh. He coached the offensive line for 19 seasons for the Patriots, a position he coached for 32 of his 48 seasons in the coaching profession. He began his coaching career in 1970 as the offensive line coach at California Western University. His coaching career led him to Iowa State (1973-74), Southern Methodist (1975-76), Pacific (1977-78), Northern Arizona (1979) and back to Southern Methodist (1980-81) before entering the NFL ranks in 1982. He coached alongside six Patriots head coaches and under all four of the team’s owners.​

Dante Scarnecchia Shares the History of the Patriots With NFL Rookies
3:19 "Forged in Foxborough" video
​

A good column from Jan 15, 2014:

» Dante Scarnecchia, the Patriots’ Forgotten Man

grantland.com

In the early days of the new millennium, Bill Belichick made two decisions that would ultimately define the Patriots. . . . The other decision came about three months before the drafting of Brady. One of the first tasks of a newly hired head coach is interviewing the assistants left over from the previous regime. Typically, this is little more than a formality. There’s a reason that house is being cleaned, and new coaches tend to want to build their own staffs.​

Dante Scarnecchia was one of those men who figured he was out of a job. He’d spent Pete Carroll’s last season in New England as the Patriots’ offensive line coach, but his time with the organization stretched back long before that. Scarnecchia has been around football long enough that his alma mater — California Western University — no longer exists, and his days with the Patriots started more than 30 years ago. In 1980 and ’81, Scarnecchia was the offensive line coach for Ron Meyer at SMU. When Meyer was named head coach of the Patriots in 1982, Scarnecchia came with, as the special teams coach. He’d stick around for each of the next five coaching regimes, leaving New England for only two years in the late ’80s for an opportunity to be the offensive line coach of the Colts.​

When Carroll’s firing was announced, Scarnecchia figured his luck in surviving every change in power had run out. “I didn’t think I’d make this [coaching change],” he admitted to the Boston Herald at the time. “I didn’t think there was a chance at continuing the run.” He started looking for other jobs, and even had an offer to take over as an assistant head coach for the Packers.​

In his final year with Carroll, Scarnecchia had returned to the offensive line. It was the job Scarnecchia wanted (among other things, he’d been a defensive assistant throughout the ’90s), and it’s the job he wanted to keep. When the Patriots announced that Jets assistant Bill Belichick would be the team’s next head coach, Scarnecchia thought he might have a chance. The two had worked together on Bill Parcells’ staff for a single season in 1996, but that was enough for Belichick. “In many ways it’s the luck of the draw,” Scarnecchia told the Herald. For Belichick, it was about a little something more. “I think he’s a great coach,” Belichick said at the time. “I would trust him with my career. In fact I am trusting him with my career.” He wouldn’t regret it.​

In stint as Patriots interim coach during 'nightmare' 1992 season, Dante Scarnecchia was the bright spot

It was a dark time for the Pats when Scarnecchia relieved an ill **** MacPherson. But he impressed enough to earn a spot on new coach Bill Parcells’ staff & helped lay the foundation for the dynasty.

www.nytimes.com

Dante Scarnecchia retiring as Patriots' offensive line coach

Dante Scarnecchia, who has coached with the Patriots for 34 years, is retiring as the team's offensive line coach.

www.espn.com

Patriots OL Coach Dante Scarnecchia Retires, Next Stop Canton | PatsFans.com

His greatest accomplishment was taking wrestler Stephen Neal, who had never played college football and molding him into a very solid offensive lineman.

www.patsfans.com

The Patriots coaching staff is losing a legend as longtime assistant coach Dante Scarnecchia is retiring after 36 seasons in the NFL, 34 of them with the Patriots. That’s longer than most of the players and many of the fans of the team have even been alive.​

Scarnecchia has always been regarded as one of the finest assistant coaches in the league and one who has been integral to the Patriots’ success, especially during the Belichick/Brady era of success.​

Scarnecchia was first hired by the Patriots in 1982 and was on Ron Meyer’s staff. He joined Meyer in Indianapolis for two years in 1989-90 before returning to the Patriots in 1991. He retired for two years in 2014 -15 before returning in 2016. He’ll turn 72 years old in February. During his time in New England, he’s worked for head coaches Meyer, Raymond Berry, **** MacPherson, Bill Parcells, Pete Carroll, and Bill Belichick. In 49 of the Patriots 58 playoff games, he’s been on the sideline. He owns five Super Bowl rings.​

Dante Scarnecchia Coaching Record and Bio - Pro Football Archives

The most complete, accurate and reliable reference source for Dante Scarnecchia pro football coaching record.

www.profootballarchives.com

Dante Scarnecchia - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Drew Bledsoe​

Happy birthday to Drew Bledsoe. The Patriots Hall of Fame quarterback was the face of the franchise from 1993 to 2000. His strong arm resulted in many clutch plays and 17 fourth-quarter comebacks. Bledsoe led the Pats to the playoffs four times in his first six seasons, and their first super bowl appearance in eleven years. More importantly he gave fans hope and excitement after the dark period between those two AFC championships.

Drew Bledsoe 1996 Highlights | Super Bowl Run
4:12 Highlight Video
​

Happy 54th birthday to Drew Bledsoe
Born February 14, 1972 in Ellensburg, Washington; hometown Walla Walla WA
Patriot QB, 1993-2001; uniform #11
Pats first round (first overall) selection of the 1993 draft, from Washington State

Drew Bledsoe's 4 TD Passes vs. Chargers! (8/31/1997) | Memorable Moments | Patriots
58 second Highlight Video via the Patriots
​

Drew Bledsoe broke franchise passing records for passing attempts, completions and yards. With no running game behind him Bledsoe threw 691 passes in 1994, an NFL record that stood for 18 years. That same season he set NFL records for pass attempts and completions in a single game, in an epic battle against the Vikings. That victory was the beginning of a seven-game winning streak that pushed the Patriots into the playoffs for the first time in eight seasons.

Bledsoe Airs it Out - Vikings vs. Patriots (Week 11, 1994) Classic Highlights
9:10 Highlight Video
​

It seems unfathomable now, but there was a time when people genuinely believed the Patriots should draft Rick Mirer over Bledsoe. Thankfully the Pats selected the kid from Walla Walla over the Notre Dame hype machine. Bledsoe is one of only two players to complete 400 passes in a single season in the 20th century and one of only five from that time period to pass for over 4,500 yards in a season. The most important aspect about Drew was that he made New England fans proud of the Patriots, rejuvenating a region after some embarrassing times – and creating excitement about the team that would result in their staying put and not moving away.

Best of Drew Bledsoe | Career Highlights
3:04 Highlight Video
​

Drew easily won the voting for the Patriots Hall of Fame on his first ballot, over Bill Parcells and Houston Antwine in 2011. He threw 251 touchdowns over 14 NFL seasons and at the time he retired his 44,611 yards passing was the 7th most in NFL history. Bledsoe ranks second in nearly all franchise passing categories, including 166 TD passes and 29,657 yards passing as a Patriot.

​

If you have the time, consider checking out the link below. It goes to all the columns mentioning Drew Bledsoe on the Today in Pro Football History blog. All of the articles are meticulously researched and extremely detailed; a really well done retrospective.
Today in Pro Football History - Drew Bledsoe posts


Hat tip to @Pape for this gem:

Bledsoe Family Winery - Homepage

Winery Ecommerce Website

www.bledsoefamilywinery.com

Drew Bledsoe Pro Football Record

The trusted source for pro football information about Drew Bledsoe. Get statistics, transactions. biographical data and more at Pro Football Archives.

www.profootballarchives.com

Drew Bledsoe - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
Drew Bledsoe​

Happy birthday to Drew Bledsoe. The Patriots Hall of Fame quarterback was the face of the franchise from 1993 to 2000. His strong arm resulted in many clutch plays and 17 fourth-quarter comebacks. Bledsoe led the Pats to the playoffs four times in his first six seasons, and their first super bowl appearance in eleven years. More importantly he gave fans hope and excitement after the dark period between those two AFC championships.

Drew Bledsoe 1996 Highlights | Super Bowl Run
4:12 Highlight Video
​

Happy 54th birthday to Drew Bledsoe
Born February 14, 1972 in Ellensburg, Washington; hometown Walla Walla WA
Patriot QB, 1993-2001; uniform #11
Pats first round (first overall) selection of the 1993 draft, from Washington State

Drew Bledsoe's 4 TD Passes vs. Chargers! (8/31/1997) | Memorable Moments | Patriots
58 second Highlight Video via the Patriots
​

Drew Bledsoe broke franchise passing records for passing attempts, completions and yards. With no running game behind him Bledsoe threw 691 passes in 1994, an NFL record that stood for 18 years. That same season he set NFL records for pass attempts and completions in a single game, in an epic battle against the Vikings. That victory was the beginning of a seven-game winning streak that pushed the Patriots into the playoffs for the first time in eight seasons.

Bledsoe Airs it Out - Vikings vs. Patriots (Week 11, 1994) Classic Highlights
9:10 Highlight Video
​

It seems unfathomable now, but there was a time when people genuinely believed the Patriots should draft Rick Mirer over Bledsoe. Thankfully the Pats selected the kid from Walla Walla over the Notre Dame hype machine. Bledsoe is one of only two players to complete 400 passes in a single season in the 20th century and one of only five from that time period to pass for over 4,500 yards in a season. The most important aspect about Drew was that he made New England fans proud of the Patriots, rejuvenating a region after some embarrassing times – and creating excitement about the team that would result in their staying put and not moving away.

Best of Drew Bledsoe | Career Highlights
3:04 Highlight Video
​

Drew easily won the voting for the Patriots Hall of Fame on his first ballot, over Bill Parcells and Houston Antwine in 2011. He threw 251 touchdowns over 14 NFL seasons and at the time he retired his 44,611 yards passing was the 7th most in NFL history. Bledsoe ranks second in nearly all franchise passing categories, including 166 TD passes and 29,657 yards passing as a Patriot.

​

If you have the time, consider checking out the link below. It goes to all the columns mentioning Drew Bledsoe on the Today in Pro Football History blog. All of the articles are meticulously researched and extremely detailed; a really well done retrospective.
Today in Pro Football History - Drew Bledsoe posts


Hat tip to @Pape for this gem:

Bledsoe Family Winery - Homepage

Winery Ecommerce Website

www.bledsoefamilywinery.com

Drew Bledsoe Pro Football Record

The trusted source for pro football information about Drew Bledsoe. Get statistics, transactions. biographical data and more at Pro Football Archives.

www.profootballarchives.com

Drew Bledsoe - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

my absolute favorite New England Patriots Quarterback ... thanks for putting the poster in the thread... its a treat to see

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Clive Rush​

Today's third notable patriot birthday does not have quite the acclaim of the previous two.

In fact, it is the polar opposite. Clive Rush is arguably the worst head coach in the history of the Patriots.



In memory of Clive Rush, who would have turned 95 today
Born February 14, 1931 in DeGraff, Ohio
Died from a heart attack on August 22, 1980 at age 49 in London, Ohio
Patriots vice president and head coach, 1969-1970
Hired by the Patriots on January 30, 1969
Pats résumé: one and a half seasons of constant turmoil; 5-16 record


Clive Rush was the offensive coordinator for the Jets when Joe Namath was named player of the year, and the Jets stunned Baltimore by winning what would later be known as Super Bowl III. Based on the outcome of that game, Billy Sullivan elected to hire Rush rather than his other candidate, the defensive coordinator from the Colts: Chuck Noll.

That of course begs the butterfly effect question: how different would the trajectory of the New England and Pittsburgh franchises have been had Sullivan chosen Noll, leaving the Steelers with Rush?


His tenure began on an ominous note, nearly being electrocuted to death. From there it went downhill, with horrible trades of good players (e.g., Nick Buoniconti, Leroy Mitchell) netting virtually zero value in return, as well as trading draft picks for mediocre players.

​

Rush was also a tightwad that resulted in good players being cut. One such money saving confrontation resulted in another infamous Patriots incident. Rush had cut players just before a game was about to start over a salary dispute. The problem with was that he now needed players and the game was going to start soon. Rush had the stadium public announcer page Bob Gladieux - who was in the stands, swilling down beers with a friend - to come to the locker room, quickly sign a contract, and get on the field for the opening kickoff.


In another instance Rush came up with the idea of the Black Power Defense, apparently a hat tip to what was happening with the civil rights movement in the USA in 1969. Clive bragged that he would be the first coach in NFL history with eleven black players on the field at the same time. Problem was that he neglected to notice that he did not have enough African American players on his defensive roster to make that happen.

Rush was paranoid about many things, such as opponents listening to locker room conversations with hidden microphones. That fear led him to another iconic moment in Houston. When returning from a game at the Astrodome he convinced himself that the driver was taking him on the scenic route in order to increase the fare. Rush vehemently complained and ordered the driver to stop. He then got off the bus and wandered into the middle of the street. Holding his hand up Rush commanded oncoming traffic to stop and waved the bus through a one-way street: the wrong way.

Obituary for Clive Rush (Aged 49)

Clipping found in Springfield Leader and Press published in Springfield, Missouri on 8/24/1980. Obituary for Clive Rush (Aged 49)

www.newspapers.com

Clive Harold Rush (1931-1980) - Find a Grave...

Clive played in the NFL for the Green Bay Packers in 1953. 1954, he coached at the University of Dayton. 1955, he coached at Ohio State under Woody Hayes. 1958 Coached at University of Oklahoma. In 1959 he returned to Ohio State and Woody Hayes. In 1960 He coached at the University of Toledo...

www.findagrave.com

https://www.nytimes.com/1980/08/24/archives/clive-rush-dies-at-49-assistant-jets-coach-in-super-bowl-victory.html

Clive Rush Coaching Record and Bio - Pro Football Archives

The most complete, accurate and reliable reference source for Clive Rush pro football coaching record.

profootballarchives.com

https://www.pro-football-reference.com/coaches/RushCl0.htm

Clive Rush - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

From Feb 12, 2025:

Today In Patriots History - Feb 12, 1969: Clive Rush is electrocuted

Today in Patriots History Clive Rush is electrocuted On February 12, 1969 the Boston Patriots held a press conference to announce the hiring of George Sauer as their new general manager. Sauer had most recently worked with new head coach Clive Rush, for the New York Jets as the director of...

www.patsfans.com

Today in Patriots History
Clive Rush is electrocuted​

On February 12, 1969 the Boston Patriots held a press conference to announce the hiring of George Sauer as their new general manager. Sauer had most recently worked with new head coach Clive Rush, for the New York Jets as the director of player personnel. Both were viewed by Billy Sullivan as winners who would lead the Pats to glory, duplicating the results they had just experienced a month earlier when the Jets defeated Baltimore in what would later be known as Super Bowl III. (Sullivan chose Rush over future Hall of Famer Chuck Noll, because Rush was an OC with the SB3 winning Jets, while Noll was the DC and DB coach for the losing Colts. Oops.)


Nobody would remember Sauer, but the press conference would proceed to become an unforgettable moment in the history of the Patriots franchise. It was also an omen of the Clive Rush era – or error.

Rush walked up to the podium and put his hand on the microphone – and immediately began screaming in anguish. Electricity from the live mike went up one arm, across his shoulders and down the other arm. The current temporarily paralyzed his muscles. As a result he was unable to let go, and the voltage continued to flow through his body. Rush staggered to the corner like a wounded monster in a Hollywood B-movie, still unable to make his hand release the microphone from his grasp. Patriot board member Dan Marr jumped up and began ripping every wire he could get his hands on out of the sockets they were plugged into. That caused the current to finally stop flowing through Rush’s body, saving his life.

50 years ago, an electric shock almost killed a Patriots coach during a press conference

The Patriots have come a long way from where the team was half a century ago. The current Super Bowl champions were in a very different place in early 1969. Nothing epitomized that more than a bizarre press conference on Feb. 12 of that year, when newly installed coach Clive Rush had to receive...

www.boston.com

Feb 12, 1969: Patriots owner Billy Sullivan (left) and Clive Rush (center) prepare to introduce George Sauer (right) at the infamous press conference​

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Mack Wilson​

Happy 28th birthday to Mack Wilson
Born February 14, 1998 in Montgomery, Alabama
Patriot special teamer/linebacker, 2022-2023; uniform #30, #3
Traded from Cleveland to New England on March 15, 2022 for Chase Winovich
Pats résumé: two seasons, 34 games (four starts)

​

Mack Wilson was a fifth-round draft pick by Cleveland in 2019, out of Alabama. He appeared in every game for the Patriots in Bill Belichick's final two seasons as head coach. In his first game as a Patriots he had three sacks in the home opener against Baltimore, becoming just the fourth Patriot to have three sacks in one half. At season end he ranked fifth with 284 special team snaps (62%), and also appeared in 236 snaps on defense (21%, 21st). Wilson was also the 2022 winner of the Ron Burton Award for outstanding community service. The following year Wilson was re-signed to a one-year contract, and was on the field for 312 ST snaps (sixth, 68%) and 305 snaps on defense (17th, 27%).

Wilson departed early in free agency in 2024, signing with Arizona. He became a starter on defense rather than a core special teamer for the Cardinals, starting in 24 of a possible 25 games in his first year and a half before being placed on injured reserve with a midseason rib injury.

Over his two seasons in New England, Mack Wilson had 73 tackles (39 solo) with five sacks, six tackles for a loss, six QB hits, four pass deflections and three forced fumbles.

March 15, 2022 - Ian Logue, PatsFans.com:

Patriots Make a Couple of Surprising Trades After Dealing Winovich and Mason | PatsFans.com

Both linebacker Chase Winovich and offensive lineman Shaq Mason were dealt away by the club on Tuesday as the team makes changes heading into 2022.

www.patsfans.com

New England made a couple of surprising trades this week, which saw one player on both sides of the football each sent off to new clubs in respective deals.​

Both linebacker Chase Winovich and offensive lineman Shaq Mason were dealt away by the club on Tuesday as the team makes changes heading into 2022. According to reports, Winovich was shipped off to Cleveland in a deal that saw the Patriots end up with 24-year old Browns linebacker Mack Wilson. As the Patriots continue trying to infuse some youth and speed into that group, Wilson appears to be a player who might give them that and he’s a young experienced NFL linebacker, which Belichick has always coveted.​

For Winovich, his departure is disappointing but it appears his skillset is simply one that doesn’t fit into the Patriots’ overall scheme. His playtime in 2021 diminished to the point where he was non-existent for much of the season, marking yet another year where he didn’t really offer much in terms of contributions after getting off to a fast start early in his career. He was originally selected in the 3rd round out of Michigan with the 77th overall pick in 2019 and showed a lot of promise early on before things seemed to come undone and whatever was going on behind the scenes appears to have led to a change of scenery for him.​

May 3, 2022 - Mike Dusault, Patriots.com:

Mack Wilson embracing "fresh start" with Patriots

www.patriots.com

The Patriots did not select a linebacker during the 2022 draft, putting an even bigger focus on the position group heading into the summer, with newly acquired Mack Wilson expected to be in the mix to seize a significant role. Though Wilson has been the only new off-the-ball linebacker to join the team thus far this offseason, coming over via a trade for Chase Winovich in mid-March, he won't be the only newish face in the group, as Raekwon McMillan and Cameron McGrone will also add some intrigue.​

"It's a blessing to get fresh start, I kind of look at it like a second chance, so I'm approaching it like a pro," said Wilson, meeting the media for the first time since his arrival in New England. "Just coming in with that mindset to work hard and earn everything that I can, build that trust amongst the rest of the guys that built this foundation here last season... just try my best to contribute any way as possible."​

Coming out of Alabama, Wilson had the kind of skillset that many covet for the Patriots defense, with speed and toughness to account for the dizzying array of modern offenses that continue to get faster and more explosive. During his rookie season, Wilson stepped right in for the Browns after being selected in the fifth round, playing all 16 games while notching 82 total tackles, with a sack, an interception and a forced fumble. In New England he'll be reunited with a collection of former Crimson Tide teammates, including Mac Jones.​

After an impressive rookie season himself, Wilson saw his role decline in his next two seasons in Cleveland, going from playing 88 percent of the defensive snaps in 2019 to 43 percent in 2020 and finally 21 percent this past season. Both he and the Patriots hope he can have a resurgence in New England, especially considering the turnover that appears imminent at linebacker with Dont'a Hightower, Kyle Van Noy and Jamie Collins all remaining unsigned after playing major defensive roles in 2021.​

From the 2023 Arizona Cardinals Media Guide, Wilson's 2023 seasonal review

2023: Appeared in all 17 games (one start) with New England ... totaled 33 tackles, 3.5 sacks, four QB hits, four tackles for loss, three passes defensed and two forced fumbles as well as four tackles on special teams ... part of a defense that allowed the fourth-fewest rushing yards (93.2) and seventh fewest total yards (301.6) per game in the NFL ... had two tackles and forced a Josh Allen fumble that was recovered by the defense vs. Buf (10/22); the fourth quarter fumble sealed the victory for New England ... registered four tackles (one for loss) and one pass defensed vs. LAC (12/3) ... had three tackles, one pass defensed and a sack of Mitchell Trubisky @ Pit (12/7) ... sacked Patrick Mahomes for a loss of nine yards and added three tackles vs. KC (12/17); it marked the first time in his career registering a sack in back-to-back games ... strip-sacked Russell Wilson for a 10-yard loss @ Den (12/24); became just the sixth Patriots LB in the last 10 seasons to have one-or-more sacks in three consecutive weeks ... had three tackles in the season finale vs. NYJ (1/7/24) and split a sack of Trevor Siemian.​

https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WilsMa03/gamelog/

Mack Wilson Pro Football Record

The trusted source for pro football information about Mack Wilson. Get statistics, transactions. biographical data and more at Pro Football Archives.

profootballarchives.com

Mack Wilson - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Rollie Dotsch​

In memory of Rollie Dotsch, who would have turned 93 today
Born February 14, 1933 Escanaba, Michigan; hometwown Lansing MI
Died from pancreatic cancer on March 16, 1985 at age 55 in Minnesota
Patriots outside linebackers coach, 1975-1976
Hired in Chuck Fairbanks third season
Pats résumé: two seasons, 28 games, plus Pats first home playoff game


Rollie Dotsch was a teammate of GM/HC Chuck Fairbanks and DC/DL coach Hank Bullough at Michigan State in the fifties. Dotsch coached at the college level from 1955-1970, including head coach and athletic director at Northern Michigan from 1966-70, where he had a 33-15-1 record. From there Rollie was the OL coach for Green Bay for three seasons before arriving in New England on Fairbanks' staff. Dotsch was on the sidelines for the 1976 season when the Patriots set a then-franchise record with an 11-3 season, coaching OLBs Steve King, Steve Zabel and backup Pete Barnes.

After one season in Detroit, Dotcsh became the OL coach for Pittsburgh when the Steelers won their third and fourth super bowl titles. Rollie then took a job as the head coach for the Birmingham Stallions in each of the three years of the USFL's existence. He was named USFL Coach of the Year in 1985, compiling a 36-18 record in three seasons.

Dotsch returned to the NFL in 1987 as running backs coach for the Minnesota Vikings. However, just as training camp began, Dotsch was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and passed away seven months later.

​

Birmingham Stallions - Fun While It Lasted

United States Football League (1983-1985)

funwhileitlasted.net

Roland Daniel “Rollie” Dotsch (1933-1988) - Find a...

played football at MSU

www.findagrave.com

Rollie Dotsch Coaching Record and Bio - Pro Football Archives

The most complete, accurate and reliable reference source for Rollie Dotsch pro football coaching record.

profootballarchives.com

Rollie Dotsch - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Harry Colon​

Happy 57th birthday to Harry Colon
Born February 14, 1969 in Kansas City, Kansas
Patriot strong safety, 1991; uniform #40
Selected in the 8th round (196th overall) of the 1991 draft, from Missouri
Pats résumé: one season, 16 games (14 starts)

Harry Colon was selected by the Pats in **** MacPherson's first year as head coach. Despite his low draft status, he played in every game in that 6-10 season, making 45 tackles with one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. The Detroit Lions signed Colon as a Plan B free agent on March 30, 1992, ending his brief tenure with the Patriots.

Colon played in 47 games with the Lions over the next three seasons, then was taken by Jacksonville in the 1995 expansion draft. He started in all 16 games for the Jaguars that year, then spent 1996 on IR due to a neck injury. Colon returned to Detroit to play eight games in 1997, but after recurring issues with the neck had to retire. From 2000-2008 Harry worked as a high schhol football coach and athletic director in a Houston high school, before stepping aside due to family reasons.

From the New England Patriots 1991 Media Guide:

From the Detroit Lions 1992 Media Guide:

PRO and 1991: Known as an aggressive hitter who can provide very strong run support . . . Good speed (4.6 in the 40) and has superior upper-body strength (300-pound bench press and 500-pound squat) . . . Signed with Detroit as a Plan B free agent in March, 1992 . . Originally drafted by New Engiand in the eighth round (196th overall) of the ’91 draft . .. Had an outstanding rookie campaign as a strong safety for the Patriots, collecting 45 total tackles with 27 solos in 14 starts . . . Also registered two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, and two passes defensed . . . Posted a career-high six tackles in New England’s contest against the Cleveland Browns (9/8).​

COLLEGE and PERSONAL: Third team All-America selection in 1990 by Football News. First team All-Big Eight Conference . . . Finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation’stop defensive back . . . Started every game as a senior and led the squad with 111 tackles (six shy of school record for defensive backs) . . . 85 solo tackles in ’90 broke the school record of 80 set in 1985 by current N.Y. Jet Erik McMillan . . . Majored in General Studies at Missouri . . . All-Conference and All-Kansas selection during three-year career at Washington (Kansas City, Kan.) High School . . . Played safety for three seasons and also running back as a junior and senior . . . Brother, Kevin, played football at Iowa State . . . Born Harry Colon on 2/14/69 in Kansas City, Kansas.​

Great Sports Name Hall of Fame Nominee - Harry Colon

Harry Colon is a man who should have made the first ballot of voting for the Great Sports Name Hall of Fame. I knew about him, he was on...

greatsportsnamehalloffame.blogspot.com

Harry Colon is a man who should have made the first ballot of voting for the Great Sports Name Hall of Fame. I knew about him, he was on my list, I kept meaning to nominate him, but I kept forgetting. Better late than never, I suppose.​

Born on Valentine's Day in 1969 (which in itself is a funny combination), Colon attended college at the University of Missouri. He then spent 6 years in the NFL, four with the Lions and one each with the Patriots and Jaguars. He was actually selected by the Jaguars in the expansion draft of 1995 but only lasted a year with them and was out of football all of 1996 before a swan song 8 games with Detroit in 1997, after which he retired due to a neck condition. He now lives in Houston, Texas and is Head Football Coach and Head of the Athletic Department at John H. Reagan High School.​

The funny thing about Colon (besides his name)? He actually didn't appear too bad stats wise up until the Jaguars picked him. He started over 11 games in a season three times and averaged about 50 tackles, 2 interceptions and 2 fumbles forced as a starter. Not too shabby for a man whose name just brings to mind a massive need for Docusate. However, despite his 3 interceptions in 1995 standing as a Jaguar record for quite some time, Colon was not that solid of a starter, and so his NFL career did not last long. Which is a shame, because his name is hilarious.​

https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/C/ColoHa20.htm

Harry Colon Pro Football Stats

The trusted source for pro football information for Harry Colon. Get statistics, transactions. biographical data and more at Pro Football Archives.

www.profootballarchives.com

Harry Colon - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Rich Ohrnberger​

Happy 40th birthday to Rich Ohrnberger
Born February 14, 1986 in East Meadow, New York (Long Island)
Patriot guard, 2009-2011; uniform #60
Selected in the 4th round (123rd overall) of the 2009 draft, from Penn State
Pats résumé: three seasons, five games, zero starts

“If you have ever seen your butthole you can’t say it was an accident; there are just too many steps involved for it to happen by accident.”​

– Rich Ohrnberger​

The Patriots originally signed Rich Ohrnberger as a backup that might hopefully eventually replace Stephen Neal, with a draft pick that was partially/indirectly obtained in the Ellis Hobbs trade. He began 2009 on the practice squad and later appeared in three games when Neal was injured.

Rich had an opportunity in 2010 when Logan Mankins held out in a contract dispute, but Dan Connolly took over at left guard instead. Ohrnberger struggled in preseason action and was on the field for just two games that year. He was waived at the end of the 2011 season after spending the year on injured reserve due to a concussion.

Ohrnberger spent one season with Arizona and two with San Diego, appearing in a total of 39 NFL games. He is known for his offbeat humor, such as doing handstands in the shower room. The reason for that he stated was because it was ‘the best way to get the undercarriage completely clean’.

Since his playing days ended Ohrnberger has been working as a 'sports news satirist'. He hosts a local weekday sports talk radio show in San Diego, and is a regular contributor on another sports show. In addition Ohrnberger has been the color analyst for San Diego State football games for the several years.

“I’ve had both shoulders operated on, part of a clavicle bone removed, spent a season on IR because of a concussion, ruptured my MCL, and had back surgery. That’s the abbreviated list. Football is about dealing with pain. It’s unavoidable, but it wears you down.”​

“I don’t know Andrew Luck, but he isn’t a coward, he loves football, and he isn’t giving up because rehabilitating injuries is ‘too hard.’ Everyone has their steak and bourbon moment eventually. His was in front of the world, and he handled it with class and poise.”​

– Rich Ohrnberger on the harsh realities of being a professional football, responding to those who criticized Andrew Luck for retiring.​

2009 Patriots bio

Full 2-hour Games with Names video with Julian Edelman:
​

https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/O/OhrnRi20.htm

Rich Ohrnberger Pro Football Stats

The trusted source for pro football information for Rich Ohrnberger. Get statistics, transactions. biographical data and more at Pro Football Archives.

profootballarchives.com

Rich Ohrnberger - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Jeff Dellenbach and
Feb 14 Cups of Coffee​

Happy 63rd birthday to Jeff Dellenbach
Born February 14, 1963 in Wausau, Wisconsin
Patriot center/long snapper, 1996; uniform #66
Signed as a veteran free agent on March 4, 1995
Pats résumé: two seasons, 17 games (five starts)

Bill Parcells signed the 10-year Miami Dolphins veteran to a four-year, $17 million deal early in the 1995 free agency to replace Mike Arthur at center. Rookie Dave Wohlabaugh took at center after five games, with Dellenbach becoming the Pats long snapper.

On the first day of the 1996 training camp Dellenbach sustained an Achilles tendon injury, and after a couple of his snaps appeared off the money in a week two loss, he (and two other veterans) were cut, as Parcells attempted to shake things up after an 0-2 start.

Dellenbach ended up signing with Green Bay, and was the long snapper when the Packers defeated the Patriots in Super Bowl 31 while Parcells was working on his upcoming new contract with the New York Jets. Dellenbach played in a total of 211 games over a 15-year NFL career.

Patriots sign Dellenbach, Meggett

New England has reached an agreement with Miami center Jeff Dellenbach.

www.tampabay.com

Dellenbach among 3 vets cut by Pats - SouthCoastToday, Sept 11, 1996

In memory of Phil Bennett, who would have turned 91 today
Born February 14, 1935 in Pittsburgh
Died December 15, 2002 at the age of 67
Patriot linebacker, 1960; uniform #52
Signed as an NFL/CFL free agent in the 1960 offseason
Pats résumé: one season, two games, two starts

Not much info on this original Boston Patriot thanks to another pro football player with the same name. He was originally drafted by Pittsburgh in 1957, from the University of Miami. Our Mr. Bennett played in the week one and two games for the Pats in their inaugural 1960 season. There was a whole lot of churning of the roster in 1960, including 350 players going in and out of that first training camp.

In memory of Willis Perkins, who would have turned 93 today
Born February 14, 1934 in Columbus, Texas; homrtown Houston TX
Died November 15, 1989 in Colorado City, Texas at the age of 55
Patriot right guard, 1961-1962
Signed on September 23, 1961
Pats résumé: one game

The lineman from Texas Southern only played in one game with the Pats in 1961, but did win an AFL championship with the Houston Oilers. Perkins was one of many great players from Texas Southern at that time that went on to play in the NFL, despite not being in a power conference. Others from that era include Patriot WR Charlie Frazier, Hall of Fame receiver Bob Hayes, Oakland All-Star WR Warren Wells, Jets Hall of Fame LT Winston Hill, Michael Strahan's uncle Art Strahan, and more.

Willis Perkins Stats - Pro Football Archives

The trusted source for pro football information for Willis Perkins. Get statistics, transactions. biographical data and more at Pro Football Archives.

www.profootballarchives.com

In memory of Robert C 'Bob' Wetenhall, who would have turned 91 today
Born February 14, 1935 in Rye, New York
Died September 3, 2021 in Palm Beach, Florida at the age of 86
One of ten part-owners of the Boston Patriots, 1966-1970

When the Patriots were first formed in 1959, Billy Sullivan was one of ten partners with equal ownership of the franchise. Not content with the direction of the team, Dom DiMaggio and others attempted to wrest control away from Sullivan. Billy won the power struggle, and DiMaggio and another part-owner, Dean Boyland sold their 10% ownership interests to Bob Wetenhall and David McConnell, who were partners at a Wall Street investment firm.

Sullivan eventually bought out all the other partners, as well as the public who owned non-voting shares (a scammy situation where Sullivan convinced Massachusetts legislatures to change the law from a two-thirds approval to simple majority . . . where Sullivan had to take out loans to accomplish becoming the sole owner, setting in motion his financial collapse . . . but I digress). Wetenhall moved on to owning a North American Soccer League franchise, and then the Canadian Football League's Montreal Alouettes. I'm not sure if being a partner in a hoity-toity Wall Street investment firm was his full time job and sports a hobby, or the other way around.

Palm Beach Daily News - Obituaries

Bob was born in Rye, New York in 1935 to J. Huber and Catherine Elizabeth (Maguire) Wetenhall. He spent his formative years with his family in Milwaukee, Chicago and New York. Bob attended Phillips Exeter Academy and matriculated at Princeton University. In 2011, Bob was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by McGill University in recognition of his work revitalizing the Montreal Alouettes football team and spearheading the expansion of Percival Molson Memorial Stadium.​

In the late 1950s, Bob travelled actively, residing at times in both pre-Castro Cuba and Paris. He was among the first U.S. civilians to visit Moscow after the start of the Cold War.​

Bob co-founded the New York-based investment banking firm McConnell, Wetenhall & Co. in 1963. He was primarily active in professional sports, commercial real estate, and venture capital investing. In the late 1960s, Wetenhall became a part owner of the Boston Patriots. In 1970, he purchased The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, where he maintained a residence for the next 50 years.​

In 1997, Bob purchased the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League. During the next fourteen years, the Alouettes played in eight Grey Cups, winning three championships in the 2002, 2009 and 2010 seasons. The rebuilding of the Montreal franchise was among his greatest sources of pride.​

Bob Wetenhall – Canadian Football Hall of Fame

Bob Wetenhall was the primary figure in the expansion, infrastructure improvements, and the restoration of Percival Molson Stadium at McGill University. From the spring of 1998 to 2010, Molson Stadium installed over 8,000 seats (it started at 17, 317 and finished at 25,012). As renovations...

cfhof.ca

Robert C. Wetenhall - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Some other pro football players born on this date with a New England connection:

Patrick Ramsey, 47 (1979)
Draft Pick Trade: 1st round, 32nd overall of the 2002 draft
In 2002 the Pats traded a third and seventh round pick in order to move up from #32 to #21 in the first round. The Patriots used that selection on TE Daniel Graham. Washington selected QB Patrick Ramsey at #32; he went 10-14 as a starting QB, spending most of his 2002-10 career as a second or third stringer.


Jason Phillips, 40 (1986)
Draft Pick Trade: 5th round, 137th ovrall of the 2009 draft
His draft pick (#137, fifth round in 2009) was traded by Philadelphia to New England in exchange for CB Ellis Hobbs. The Pats then traded that same pick to San Diego for two draft picks, which they used on OL Rich Ohrnberger(above) and LS Jake Ingram.


Tyreke Smith, 40 (1986)
Draft Pick Trade: 5th round, 158th overall of the 2022 draft
On April 2, 2022, the pick used on Tyreke Smith was traded by Miami, along with DeVante Parker to the Patriots for a 2023 3rd round pick (77th overall subsequently traded, Byron Young)
Then on April 29, 2022 the Pats traded that 2022 5th round pick (158th overall, Smith) along with a 2022 2nd round pick (54th overall, Skyy Moore) to Kansas City for their 2022 2nd round pick (50th overall) in order to move up four spots and select WR Tyquan Thornton.
LB Tyreke Smith has bounced on and off practice squads since being drafted in 2022, appearing in five NFL games.


Tom McNamara (1896-1943)
Lifelong resident of Clinton, MA; Clinton High School; Tufts University
Tom was an NFL guard and fullback from 1923-1926.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Pro Football History
February 14​

Happy 66th birthday to Jim Kelly
Born Feb 14, 1960 in Pittsburgh; hometown East Brady, PA
Buffalo Bills QB, 1986-1996
5x Pro Bowl; Hall of Fame, 2002

Jim Kelly | Pro Football Hall of Fame | Pro Football Hall of Fame

Jim Kelly was selected in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills was one of the best pure passers the National Football League has ever seen. Learn more today!

www.profootballhof.com

The Buffalo Bills selected quarterback Jim Kelly in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft. However, the Miami Hurricane star opted to sign with the Houston Gamblers of the United States Football League. Kelly, in two seasons with the Gamblers, threw for 9,842 yards and 83 touchdowns. The USFL folded following the 1985 season, and Kelly, just prior to the start of the 1986 NFL season, signed with the Bills.​

A strong-armed passer with a "linebacker's mentality," Kelly lived up to his advance billing, as he virtually rewrote the Bills' record book for quarterbacks. Only three players in NFL history had reached the 30,000-yard career passing mark faster. Eight times during his NFL career he passed for more than 3,000 yards in a season, and twenty-six times he passed for more than 300 yards in a game. On September 13, 1992, in a 34-31 shootout victory over the Steve Young-led San Francisco 49ers, Kelly passed for a career-high 403 yards.​

The Bills, during the 1990s, with Kelly and teammates Thurman Thomas and Andre Reed, possessed a highly potent offense. Kelly's quick decisiveness and fast paced "no-huddle" offense terrorized opposing defenses. He led the NFL in passing in 1990 and the AFC again in 1991. With his 101.2 passer rating in 1990, he became only the fifth quarterback to maintain a rating over 100 since the system was introduced in 1973.​

In 11 seasons in Buffalo, Kelly led the Bills to the playoffs eight times. In 17 playoff game appearances, including four consecutive Super Bowls, he passed for 3,863 yards and 21 touchdowns. At the time of his retirement, his 84.4 passer rating ranked sixth all-time and was second when compared to Hall of Fame quarterbacks. His 35,467 career passing yards ranked tenth in NFL history; his 2,874 completions ranked eighth; and his 237 touchdowns ranked thirteenth.​

At the time of Kelly's retirement, only Fran Tarkenton, Dan Fouts, and Johnny Unitas among Hall of Fame quarterbacks had passed for more yardage, and only Tarkenton, and Fouts had completed more passes.​

In memory of Steve McNair, who would have turned 53 today
Born Feb 14, 1973 in Mt Olive, Mississippi
Died July 4, 2009 in Nashville at the age of 36
2003 MVP; 3x Pro Bowl QB for the Tennessee Titans

At the time he retired, McNair was one of just three quarterbacks (Fran Tarkenton and Steve Young being the others) to throw for 30,000 yards and run for 3,500 yards.

Steve McNair (2020) - Hall of Fame - National Football Foundation

footballfoundation.org

Arguably the greatest player in Alcorn State history, Steve McNair rewrote the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and school record books en route to winning the 1994 Walter Payton Award as the best player in the FCS. "Air McNair" deservedly becomes the first Brave player to enter the College Football Hall of Fame.​

A 1994 First Team All-American, McNair finished third for the Heisman Trophy, which is tied for the highest finish ever by an FCS player. The 1994 Eddie Robinson Trophy recipient as the nation's best HBCU player, he remains the all-time total yards leader in FCS history with 16,823, and his 14,496 passing yards were a national record until 2018. The only four-time SWAC Offensive Player of the Year in history, McNair led Alcorn State to conference titles and FCS Playoff berths in 1992 and 1994. Those same two seasons, the four-time First Team All-SWAC selection led the nation in total offense with 4,057 yards in 1992 and an FCS single-season record 5,799 in 1994. McNair's other career FCS records include 41 games with 200 passing yards, 32 games with 300 passing yards, 15 games with 400 total offensive yards and nine games with 500 total offensive yards.​

Alcorn State's all-time leading passer with 14,496 career yards, McNair also owns school records for career completions (958) and passing touchdowns (119). During his remarkable 1994 senior campaign, he set single-season Braves records with 5,377 passing yards, 356 completions and 47 passing touchdowns. Some of McNair's top performances from that season led to Alcorn State single-game records, including 587 passing yards against Southern, eight passing touchdowns against Chattanooga and 52 completions against Youngstown State (an FCS Playoff record). The 1991 SWAC Freshman of the Year also ranks third in school history with 2,327 rushing yards. The two-time Dean's Scholar is enshrined in the SWAC, Black College Football, State of Mississippi Sports and State of Tennessee Sports halls of fame.​

The third overall pick in the 1995 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers, McNair played for the Oilers/Tennessee Titans from 1995-2005 and led the franchise to a berth in Super Bowl XXXIV. The three-time Pro Bowler and 2003 NFL Co-MVP finished his pro career with the Baltimore Ravens from 2006-07. McNair is a member of the Titans/Oilers Hall of Fame, and the franchise retired his No. 9 jersey in 2019.​

McNair left a lasting impact in the community through the Steve McNair Foundation, which served underprivileged youth through education and civic opportunities and raised more than $1 million for charities. He organized a highly successful relief drive following Hurricane Katrina, and he trained thousands of kids at youth football camps, covering the costs for nearly 70% of the attendees. McNair received multiple awards for his work in the community, including the NFLPA's Byron "Whizzer" White Award. He died on July 4, 2009, at the age of 36.​

McNair, Steve « Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

tshf.net

Drafted third overall by the NFL’s Houston Oilers in 1995, McNair became the Oilers’ regular starting quarterback in 1997, their first season in Tennessee, and remained the starting quarterback for the Titans through 2005. He was the first African-American quarterback to be chosen as the NFL’s Most Valuable Player.​

Steve led the Titans to the playoffs four times and played in Super Bowl XXXIV. He is the Titans’ all-time leading passer, a three time Pro Bowl selection, an Ed Block Courage Award recipient and was named Sports Illustrated Player of the Year, All-Pro and Co-MVP in 2003. Most recently, he was inducted into the SWAC Hall of Fame, Black College Football Hall of Fame, and also the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame.​

But the real story of his playing career was not told by the stats. Leadership and toughness were the areas where Steve has made his reputation. In pressure situations, he was cool and confident. During his NFL career, there were times his body was so badly battered that he simply couldn’t practice. Still, he gutted it out every Sunday. His willingness to play with pain was a constant source of inspiration to his teammates. In turn, there was nothing they wouldn’t do for him.​

No pain, no gain; if that’s the case, McNair was light years ahead of the rest of the NFL. Each Sunday seemed to bring a new challenge, as well as a great story about how he overcame it. When Steve broke into pro football, all his teammates could talk about was his jaw-dropping athletic talent. Soon, they couldn’t stop raving about his superhuman toughness.​

Steve McNair was murdered 16 years ago today

Sixteen years ago today, a quiet Fourth of July afternoon was interrupted with the stunning news that former NFL quarterback Steve McNair had been shot and killed.

www.nbcsports.com

What happened to Steve McNair? The true story behind the Netflix 'Untold' episode

Questions about the investigation into the murder of the former NFL star quarterback are examined in the latest episode of the Netflix series.

www.today.com

Inductee | Stephen LaTreal McNair 2020

Stephen LaTreal McNair was a Quarterback for Alcorn State Universityand inducted into College Football Hall of Fame in 2020

www.cfbhall.com

Happy 24th birthday to Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Born Feb 14, 2002 in Nacogdoches, Texas
Seattle Seahawks WR, 2023-present
2025 Offensive Player of the Year

Last season JSN led the NFL with 1,793 yards receiving, and 14.5 yards per touch. Perhaps overshadowed a bit by Marvin Harrison Jr at Ohio State, over the last two years he has been unstoppbale, catching 73% of the passes thrown his way, During that time he has 219 receptions for 2,923 yards, 136 first downs and 16 touchdowns.

​

Happy 70th birthday to John Anderson
Born Feb 14, 1956 in Waukesha, Wisconsin
Green Bay Packers OLB, 1978-1989
NFL All-Decade Team: 1980s; Packers Hall of Fame, 1996

Packers John Anderson | Green Bay Packers – packers.com

www.packers.com

John Anderson was the epitome of an assignment-sure and ever-steady outside linebacker, but no less important when judging his body of work was his athleticism and skill set. Along with possessing the measurables to be a first-round draft choice, he consistently graded out as the premier athlete on the Packers' roster in pre-camp testing over the first several years of his career. Those results were based on speed, agility, quickness, strength and conditioning, among others.​

"If you have great ability, along with dedication and consistency, you've really got a football player," Monte Kiffin said of Anderson in 1983, the former's only season as Packers linebackers coach.​

The most telling statistic of Anderson's career was his 25 interceptions, which tie him with Ray Nitschke for the most by a linebacker in Packers history based on official records since 1940. Anderson's strengths were his pass drops, particularly in man coverage against tight ends, and an uncanny ability to avoid getting hooked by blockers on running plays to his side. While Anderson didn't blitz much or blow up many backs in the running game, he was anything but soft. "He's probably a little more physical than people give him credit for being," said Dale Lindsey, his position coach in 1986 and '87.​

Happy 34th birthday to Jadeveon Clowney
Born Feb 14, 1993 in Rock Hill, South Carolina
3x Pro Bowl edge rusher with the Houston Texans
66½ sacks, 2014-present

​

In memory of Lionel Aldridge, born on this date 85 years ago
Born Feb 14, 1941 in Evergreen, Louisiana; hometown Pittsburgh, California
Died Feb 12, 1998 at the age of 56
DE for the Green Bay Packers when they won three straight championships (1965-67), including Super Bowl I and II.

Bright career clouded by tragic decline

In the best of times, Lionel Aldridge was a defensive standout for the Green Bay Packers. An articulate and well-spoken man. A loving husband, father and family man.

archive.jsonline.com

Happy 57th birthday to Jeff Graham
Born Feb 14, 1969 in Dayton, Ohio
542 receptions for 8,172 yards and 30 TD from 1991 to 2001, including 1,301 yards for the Bears in 1995.

Happy 36th birthday to Alshon Jeffery
Born Feb 14, 1990 in South Carolina
475 catches for 6,786 yards and 46 TD from 2012-20 for the Bears and Eagles. In 2013-14 the WR had 174 receptions for 2,554 yards and 17 TD with Chicago.

Happy 48th birthday to David Garrard
Born Feb 14, 1978 in NJ; hometown Durham, NC
Jacksonville QB from 2002-2010
In 2007 Garrard led the Jaguars to the playoffs, eventually losing to the Patriots in the diviional round 31-20. That season Garrard led the NFL with a 0.9% interception rate, with 18 TD and 3 Int.

Last but not least (literally):
In memory of Jared Lorenzen, who would have turned 45 today
Born Feb 14, 1981 in Covington, Kentucky
Died July 3, 2019 at the age of 38
Giants QB, 2004-2008

The 6'4, 285 pound backup was more well known for the nicknames attributed to his size than his passing abilities: take your pick, either the Hefty Lefty or The Pillsbury Throwboy.

Lorenzen struggled with his weight throughout most of his life, which was exacerbated following a leg injury that ended his playing career. By 2017 he had ballooned to over 500 pounds, but by 2018 later had shed 100 of those pounds. All that physical stress had taken a toll on his body however, and Lorenzen passed away in 2019 from an acute infection, complicated by heart and kidney problems.

 

[BennyBledsoe]

Not a Patriot, but Jim Kelly was also born on February 14th.

 

[Patsfan1645]

Wow that Clowney video is insane. He just totally dominated the other teams by himself.