Today In Patriots History June 11, 2013: Nothing to see here at first day of mandatory minicamp

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
2013: Brandon Spikes, Tim Tebow
at first day of mandatory minicamp​

June 11 is just about dead center in terms of being the slowest time of year for football news. Other than some churning of bottom-of-the-roster camp fodder, there is not a whole lot to regurgitate today - though there is this novel tidbit.


June 11, 2013:
Day One of Mandatory Minicamp

The media hovered around the spectacle of Tim Tebow (who had just been signed the previous day) in Patriots gear for the first time, but were disappointed when he offered only very brief comments after practice.

Meanwhile, Brandon Spikes did surprise some simply by showing up. The linebacker had skipped all of the voluntary workouts in a very non-Patriots Way, choosing instead to work out on his own in Florida. Spikes created more questions than answers when he explained that "Honestly, if everybody in this world was a conformist, it would be one boring place."

Tebow: 'Very thankful' for Pats opportunity - Mike Reiss, ESPN

As he was walking off the practice field, Tim Tebow made a short statement to the dozens of reporters waiting for him but did not take any questions.​

"First and foremost, I just want to thank the Patriots for giving me an opportunity,” he said. “I'm very thankful. It's such an honor to be a Patriot and play for coach [Bill] Belichick and coach [Josh] McDaniels, and learn under Tom [Brady] and be a part of this great franchise and very successful franchise. I found out first hand; lost to them several times.​

"It's going to be a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to working hard every single day and getting a lot better and learning under some great people.​

“That's all I got. Thank you all so much and God bless. I'm sure we'll be talking more soon."​

And that was it. The sports media wanted to turn the Tebow road show into a circus, but he wasn't having any part of it.

As for Spikes, there had been rampant speculation that his decision to skip voluntary workouts was tied to a contract holdout. Prior to the signing of Tebow, the media wondered aloud how his decision to stay in Florida would go over with Bill Belichick.


Patriots Journal: Brandon Spikes isn’t sorry for going it alone - Providence Journal

Brandon Spikes is making no apologies for staying away from the Patriots voluntary workouts for the last two months. The linebacker joined the team for the start of mandatory minicamp Tuesday and pronounced himself fit and ready to go.​

The former University of Florida star said that he had knee surgery after last season, but is feeling fine now.​

“I’m way past that now. I’m feeling the best I’ve felt since I’ve been here,” he said.​

His teammates had no issues with his staying away, he reported.​

“I stayed in contact with some guys out here, making sure things weren’t changing in the meeting room and stuff like that,” he said. “I just wanted to stay on top of my game, and I felt like being somewhere else, on my own, I normally do better and be productive that way.”​

Brandon Spikes, nonconformist, present at practice

The Patriots' first mandatory practice of minicamp was an uneventful one for third-year linebacker Brandon Spikes, who participated in just a handful of drills after having been the lone no-show for voluntary workouts. However, his session with the media following the workout was a bit more...

www.boston.com

The Patriots’ first mandatory practice of minicamp was an uneventful one for third-year linebacker Brandon Spikes, who participated in just a handful of drills after having been the lone no-show for voluntary workouts.​

However, his session with the media following the workout was a bit more interesting.​

Spikes, who arrived at Gillette on Monday, passed on the opening eight weeks of team workouts, and chose instead to spend his time training at a private sports performance center in Florida.​

“I mean you guys know me. I frequently do things a little bit different from everybody else,” he continued. “I don’t think they’re bad, or a shocker. Honestly, if everybody in the world was a conformist, it would be one boring place.”​

Spikes — who is in the last year of his rookie contract — had 92 tackles, one sack, and forced five fumbles in 15 games (14 starts) last season. His absence from the OTA’s doesn’t appear to be contract related.​

Asked if he was upset with his current contract situation, Spikes responded, “You know I can’t speak on that. Why would you ask me that? No comment, guys.”​

Whether the Patriots coaching staff has a problem with the absence of their inside linebacker was not immediately clear. However, coach Bill Belichick did make a point to bring up the team attendance during his press conference.​

“All of our players except one have been here regularly through the offseason up until this week,” Belichick said.​

Spikes managed to fly relatively under the radar on Tuesday, thanks in large part to hoopla caused by the arrival of his former college teammate, quarterback Tim Tebow.​

Brandon Spikes arrives for mandatory minicamp

For most players, their arrival for mandatory workouts doesn’t qualify as news.

www.nbcsports.com

For most players, their arrival for mandatory workouts doesn’t qualify as news.​

But Patriots linebacker Brandon Spikes is reporting this morning, according to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, after working out on his own in Florida.​

Spikes’ absence wasn’t a contract issue (according to sources), but rather his attempt to turn himself into a three-down linebacker. Thus, he opted for the literal definition of voluntary as opposed to the de facto definition embraced by all coaches and most players.​

Whether that independent study pays off remains to be seen, as the Patriots mix and match linebackers to situations. But while Spikes’ absence might not have been a political statement, he is in the last year of his deal.​

And if he can transform himself into more than a run-down player, he’ll create a more robust market for himself next offseason, when his rookie deal expires.​

Tebow A Patriots QB?, Sorry That Dog Won't Hunt

Got a question about Tebow’s performance during camp? Don’t expect any golden tidbits from Belichick

www.patsfans.com

Tebow A Patriot, Now The Magic Word: Why?

If all else fails, bring in Doug Flutie and teach him how to drop kick.

www.patsfans.com

Five Thoughts Following the Patriots Addition of Tim Tebow

Here are five thoughts on the arrival of Tim Tebow here in New England

www.patsfans.com

Player Signing - Patriots Sign Tim Tebow

No joke! http://https://twitter.com/rapsheet/status/344198740132913152

www.patsfans.com

Player Signing Thread 'Patriots Sign Tim Tebow'

Jun 10, 2013

No joke!

http://https://twitter.com/rapsheet/status/344198740132913152

• Calciumee
• Replies: 1,039
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Brandon Spikes reports to Minicamp

I'm surprised this hasn't been plastered all over the place already: Brandon Spikes arrives for mandatory minicamp | ProFootballTalk Time to see if those extra few weeks working down at Bommarito will pay off! I know that trainer has done wonders for other players, Gronkowski being one of...

www.patsfans.com

V

Thread 'Brandon Spikes reports to Minicamp'

Jun 10, 2013

I'm surprised this hasn't been plastered all over the place already:

Brandon Spikes arrives for mandatory minicamp | ProFootballTalk

Time to see if those extra few weeks working down at Bommarito will pay off! I know that trainer has done wonders for other players, Gronkowski being one of them.

• VrabelJr
• Replies: 8
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Tebow 'thankful' of the pats

Tebow: 'Very thankful' for Pats opportunity - New England Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston While he has very nice things to say...why would he stop and give a "statement" ? Sometimes he invites this attention. He couldve kept quiet and going on.

www.patsfans.com

S

Thread 'Tebow 'thankful' of the pats'

Jun 11, 2013

Tebow: 'Very thankful' for Pats opportunity - New England Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston

While he has very nice things to say...why would he stop and give a "statement" ? Sometimes he invites this attention. He couldve kept quiet and going on.

• SVN
• Replies: 45
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Thomas Dimitroff​

June 11, 2003:
New England Patriots hire Thomas Dimitroff as Director of College Scouting


Dimitroff had joined the Pats the previous year, as a national scout. His football journey began at the University of Guelph in Ontario, where began as the team's equipment manger, to making it onto the field as a defensive back. From there he went to the CFL's Saskatchewan Roughriders, working his way up from being a 'not-so-glorified-gopher' and performing low level tasks such as ticket sales and promotions, to becoming the team's Canadian scouting coordinator.


Football was in his blood. His father was a football lifer. Tom Dimitroff Sr. was a quarterback for Ottawa in the CFL, and later for the 1960 Boston Patriots. The elder Dimitroff coached and scouted in the CFL and NFL before dying of kidney cancer in 1996. The junior Dimitroff grew up in Ontario as his father coached in Ottawa and Hamilton. Tom Sr. continually advised his son to chase his GM dreams by paying his dues. Thus, Thomas did the Ordinary Joe Jobs in Saskatchewan, the World League of American Football, and a Japanese football league.

Eventually Dimitroff made his way to the Cleveland Browns, where he met Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli. Dimitroff was again initially reduced to low-level tasks, such as painting the field.

"Thomas would come into our office and he'd just be covered in paint. He'd have it in his hair and he'd stink from sweat." New England Patriots executive Scott Pioli, recalling his days together with Thomas Dimitroff in the Cleveland Browns' front office.​

Mike Reiss, from April 28, 2006:

Eye on the process

A snapshot look at the structure of the Patriots' scouting department.

www.boston.com

The following is a general snapshot of how the scouting department operates (sourced through interviews last year with Patriots Director of College Scouting Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Bill Belichick):​

The boss:​

Scott Pioli — Vice President of Player Personnel​

The top assistants:​

Nick Caserio –- Director of Pro Personnel​

Thomas Dimitroff –- Director of College Scouting​

Those who report to the top assistants (16):​

High-level national scouts​

Regional/area scouts​

Coaches’ input:​

Head coach Bill Belichick plays a major role in the process, working closely with Pioli in making final decisions. The team’s assistant coaches also help in the process, working out and interviewing prospects, and offering their input.​

A look at the Patriots’ personnel department (according to the team’s 2005 media guide):​

Scott Pioli –- Vice President of Player Personnel​

Thomas Dimitroff –- Director of College Scouting​

Nick Caserio –- Director of Pro Personnel​

Jay Muraco –- College Scouting Coordinator​

Larry Cook –- Regional Scout​

Bob Quinn –- Regional Scout​

Frank Leonard –- Special Assignment Scout​

Marvin Allen –- Area Scout​

Jim Nagy –- Area Scout​

Jon Robinson –- Area Scout​

Matt Russell –- Area Scout​

Tim Heffelfinger –- Area Scout​

Justin Crouse –- Area Scout​

Frantzy Jourdain –- Area Scout​

Brian Flores –- Scouting Assistant​

Tim Pichette –- Scouting Assistant​

Kyle O’Brien –- Pro Scout​

Adam Peters –- Pro Scout​

Bucko Kilroy –- Scouting Consultant​

Nancy Meier –- Director of Scouting Administration​

Tom would serve in his position for the Patriots through the 2007 season, then worked as the general manager for the Atlanta Falcons from 2008 to 2020. Among the players drafted by the Patriots during his tenure in Foxborough were Ty Warren, Asante Samuel, Dan Koppen, Tully Banta-Cain, Vince Wilfork, Logan Mankins, Ellis Hobbs, Matt Cassel and Stephen Gostkowski, among others. The Patriots won Super Bowls 38 and 39 while Dimitroff was the Pats Director of College Scouting.

Mark Daniels, Jan 31, 2017:

After leaving Patriots, Falcons GM Dimitroff forged own path

HOUSTON — When front office people leave the Patriots organization, there’s a temptation by many to try to model themselves after Bill Belichick. After working for the Patriots, Atlanta Falcons gener…

www.capecodtimes.com

A turning point for Dimitroff happened early in his Falcons tenure. Prior to the 2011 draft, he asked Belichick about a potential trade. Dimitroff wanted to move up to select a wide receiver in the first round. The only problem was that the Cleveland Browns, who held the sixth overall pick, wanted two first-round picks, a second and two fourth-rounders spanning the 2011 and 2012 draft.​

As documented in the book "War Room," Belichick advised Dimitroff against the trade and thought the Falcons could get similar value in receiver Jonathan Baldwin. Dimitroff, of course, made the deal and picked Alabama's Julio Jones, one of the best receivers in the NFL, while Baldwin is out of the league.​

Although the trade looked lopsided, it worked out for the Falcons. In the end, the Browns ended up with quarterback Brandon Weeden, defensive tackle Phil Taylor, receiver Greg Little, fullback Owen Marecic and traded away the other fourth-round pick while moving up to draft running back Trent Richardson.​

Before Dimitroff accepted the Falcons job, Belichick told him to be true to himself. In the end, that advice paid off.​

Note: some dates below, which have been re-reported by other sites, must be inaccurate. Specifically, the dates working for the Browns (1998-2001) don't make sense because (a) the Browns left for Baltimore after the 1995 season and did not reappear as an expansion team until 1999, and (b) Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli were not with the Browns after 1995, so they could not have worked with Thomas Dimitroff in Cleveland in 1998.

2007 Patriots Media Guide

Dec 23, 2008:
Atlanta Falcons leave dog days in the dust thanks to Canadian GM -- Metro News

Were it not for the worst-to-first ascent of Bill Parcells’ Miami Dolphins, in fact, Thomas Dimitroff would be a shoo-in as the NFL’s top exec of 2008.​

Last January, Dimitroff accepted an offer to become the Atlanta Falcons’ general manager, a position established NFLers flat-out rejected. The reason was that the Falcons were dogged – you should pardon the expression – by unprecedented nightmares last year. They were 4-12. Their franchise quarterback – Michael Vick – was jailed because of his role in a dogfighting ring. Their coach, Bob Petrino, quit after 13 games to return to college football.​

Desperate, owner Arthur Blank turned to Dimitroff, who was scouting for the New England Patriots. Dimitroff hired Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith as coach, acquired running back Michael Turner as a free agent and chose quarterback Matt Ryan third overall in the NFL draft.​

All three flourished and, on Sunday, the Falcons qualified for the post-season.​

“Never thought this could happen this year, never,” Blank said after Atlanta’s playoff-clinching triumph in Minnesota. "This is the season of miracles, thanks to Thomas.”​

“I gave Thomas years to rebuild our team,” Blank said, “and he did it in months. He’s a special guy. We’re very proud of him. Canada should be proud of him, too.”​

Taking over a 4-12 team, the Falcons had winning records in each of Dimitroff's first five years in Atlanta, going 56-24. Thomas Dimitroff was Atlanta's GM when the Falcons played the Patriots in the "28-3" Super Bowl following the 2016 season. The team seemed to go into a funk after that, and after an 0-5 start to the 2020 season, both he and head coach Dan Quinn were fired.

After that he and his son co-founded a football analytics company called SūmerSports, which is a "data-driven platform that empowers teams with insights and tools to make informed decisions within salary cap constraints. The platform also serves the NCAA, offering insights around the transfer portal and more". In 2024 Dimitroff departed that firm and interviewed for GM openings with the Jets and Titans, but did not get a job offer from either team. On September 2, 2025, the Saints hired Dimitroff as a consultant, reporting to GM Mickey Loomis.


Feb 9, 2011:

Falcons' Dimitroff named executive of the year

Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff has been selected NFL executive of the year by the Sporting News for the second time in three seasons.

www.espn.com

Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff has been selected NFL executive of the year by the Sporting News for the second time in three seasons.​

Dimitroff was chosen for his role in building the Falcons since 2008. Atlanta has gone from a team that never had consecutive winning records to one with three straight winning seasons. The Falcons went 13-3 in 2010, the best record in the NFC, before losing to Green Bay in the playoffs.​

THOMAS DIMITROFF JR. — Guelph Sports Hall of Fame — Guelph Sports Hall of Fame

THOMAS DIMITROFF JR. — Guelph Sports Hall of Fame

www.guelphsportshalloffame.com

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Larry Cook​

June 11, 2003:
On the same day that Tom Dimitroff was handed the job of Director of College Scouting, Larry Cook is reassigned to a Regional Scout

Cook had been the Pats Director of College Scouting for the previous six years. That job was taken over by Thomas Dimitroff (above), who had been hired in 2002 as New England's national scout.

Cook originally joined the Patriots as a part-time west coast pro personnel scout when Ron Meyer was named head coach in 1982. He joined the Patriots scouting department on a full-time basis as a personnel scout on **** Steinberg’s staff on Feb. 1, 1985, after a 16-year coaching career. Larry began his coaching career in 1963 at Fountain Valley High School in California, and in 1975, he accepted an assistant coaching position at Cal State Fullerton. After three years there Cook became an assistant with the Rams scouting department, working there through the 1984 season.

2003 marked Cook's 41st year in football, including 23 with the Pats. During that time he saw the Patriots make it to their first three super bowls: the loss to the Bears, the loss to the Packers, and the Silence of the Rams.

Larry Cook continued to work as a regional scout for three years, then 13 more as a Patriots scouting consultant. He worked with the Patriots through 2018, a remarkable total of 34 years in the New England personnel department and a total of 56 working in football. Cook was on New England's staff for each of the franchise's eleven super bowl appearances, retiring after the Pats 13-3 victory over the Rams.

Behind the scenes: Larry Cook - espnBoston

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
20th Century June 11 News​

June 11, 1968:
Boston Patriots trade their 1969 fourth round draft pick to Kansas City for RB Gene Thomas

Thomas lasted one season, gaining 300 yards with two touchdowns in a backup role with four starts. He was traded to the Raiders for cash on November 21.





June 11, 1970:
Patriots sign 11th round draft pick Dennis Bramlett, an OT from Texas El-Paso
Patriots sign 12th round draft pick Greg Roero, a DT from New Mexico Highlands

Both players were waived on August 31, and neither ever played in the NFL.

To the best of my knowledge Dennis Bramlett (born and raised in Wichita Falls, Texas) is not related to John 'Bull' Bramlett (Pats OLB 1969-70, born and raised in Memphis).





June 11, 1979:
Patriots sign their first round draft pick, South Carolina safety Rick Sanford

Sanford played 89 games with 60 starts for the Patriots from 1979 to 1984, with 16 interceptions and nine fumble recoveries.

Rick Sanford - SC Football Hall of Fame | Become a life changer for our youth!

Rick Sanford is a South Carolina Football Hall of Fame Class of 2021 Inductee. He is from Rock Hill, SC, and became an All-American at South Carolina, and All-Pro in the NFL.

scfootballhof.org

June 11, 1979:
Patriots sign their seventh round draft pick, safety Judson Flint of Memphis

Judson Flint missed all of his rookie season due to a knee injury. He was the last player waived after training camp in 1980, and was picked up by the Browns. Flint played in 38 straight games for Cleveland before being sidelined with a broken ankle, and played in only one more game after that. In his post-NFL career Flint was a supervisor for the Mercer County Housing Authority in Pennsylvania, until he retired in 2012. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 61.

​

June 11, 1992:
New England signs their eighth round draft pick, Penn State FB Sam Gash

Gash was a devastating lead blocker for runners like Curtis Martin, playing in 88 games with the Pats from 1992-1997. He was named to the Pro Bowl with Buffalo in 1998 and 1999, and played in a total of 177 NFL games for the Pats, Bill and Ravens over 12 seasons. Unfortunately all that leading with his head to block is resulting in a cognitive decline.

Put in da fullback, Part 2: A feature on Sam Gash

In the final segment of a two-part interview with former Penn State fullback Sam Gash, the former All-Pro fullback and assistant coach speaks frankly about the toll that the position and the way he p…

www.blueridgenow.com

Pats from the Past, Episode 16: Sam Gash

In this edition of the Pats from the Past podcast, former Patriots fullback Sam Gash joins us. He discusses the lost art of playing fullback, his mano a mano battles with a Hall of Fame linebacker, and missing the Patriots Super Bowl run in 1996.

www.patriots.com

June 11, 1997:
Patriots sign rookie free agent WR Chris Ortiz

The Patriots waived Ortiz on August 13, prior to the second preseason game. He later signed with the Chiefs and Giants, but his only pro football action was with the New England Sea Wolves of the Arena Football League in 2000. Perhaps someone in his family still has a photo of him in his Patriots #18 jersey from his brief stay in Foxborough.

HOW WILL PATRIOTS RECEIVE ORTIZ?

It may be a long time before Southern Connecticut State University sees another player like Chris Ortiz. Ortiz holds or shares every receiving record at Southern. Most of the records had stood since the late ’50s. Now, Ortiz has his…

www.courant.com

It may be a long time before Southern Connecticut State University sees another player like Chris Ortiz.​

Ortiz holds or shares every receiving record at Southern. Most of the records had stood since the late ’50s.​

Now, Ortiz has his foot in the door to the NFL. He is a rookie free agent wide receiver in the Patriots training camp.​

Ortiz, from Waterbury, could face a daunting challenge to make the final roster.​

“There’s definitely a lot of competition,” Ortiz said Wednesday after a morning practice. “I have to give it my all every time. I think I have a decent shot. I’ll have to be extraordinary to make the spot.”​

Ortiz was extraordinary at Southern. He began as a freshman at quarterback before being switched two games into the season.​

The move worked. Ortiz (6 feet 2, 202 pounds) averaged 45 receptions over four seasons and set 10 school scoring and receiving records.​

ORTIZ GETS A SHOT IN KC

Waterbury native Chris Ortiz is hoping to make good on his opportunity with the Chiefs. Ortiz, 23, a wide receiver who finished his career at Southern Connecticut State two seasons ago, was cut by the Patriots in training camp last…

www.courant.com

Biography

www.cosportsacademy.org

https://www.instagram.com/cosportsacademy/

Chris Ortiz

Chris Ortiz. 1,650 likes · 2 talking about this. C. O. Sports Academy, Inc. “Providing an opportunity to succeed through sports and more.”

www.facebook.com

June 11, 1999:

Patriots sign DE Sterling Palmer

FOXBORO, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced the signing of DE Sterling Plamer.

www.patriots.com

The New England Patriots announced the signing of DE Sterling Palmer.​

Palmer, 28, played four seasons with the Washington Redskins (1993-96) before suffering a knee injury which sidelined him for the past two seasons.​

The 6-foot-5-inch, 278-pound defensive tackle started 44 of 49 games during his career with the Redskins and amassed 229 tackles and 11 sacks.​

He was originally drafted by the Washington Redskins in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL draft (101st overall) following a career at Florida State.​

During his first three seasons he started 39 consecutive games at defensive end for Washington. Palmer led all Redskin defensive linemen with 4.5 sacks in 1993 and 90 tackles in 1994.​

Palmer's attempted comeback ended on September 9, 1999 when he was released in order to make room for the return of DE Ferric Collons.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News From The Aughts​

June 11, 2001:
Patriots claim DB Ray Hill off waivers from Buffalo

Patriots claim Hill off waivers

The New England Patriots were awarded their claim on cornerback Ray Hill off waivers from the Buffalo Bills Wednesday.

www.patriots.com

The 6-foot, 190-pound defender had recorded 28 special teams tackles during his four-year NFL career. Hill was originally signed by the Bills as an undrafted free agent on April 24, 1998, but was waived and placed on the Bills practice squad. He was later activated by the Bills, but was again waived and was picked up by the Miami Dolphins on Nov. 18, 1998. Hill recorded a career-high 14 special teams tackles with the Dolphins in 1999. He was waived by the Dolphins on Oct. 25, 2000 and signed with Buffalo on Nov. 22, 2001.​

The addition of Hill gives New England nine cornerbacks on its roster. Ty Law, Terrance Shaw and Otis Smith have significant starting experience. Hill, Kato Serwanga and Antwan Harris have limited experience. The other three are draft picks Brock Williams and Leonard Myers, and second-year player Sean Morey, who is converting from wide receiver. Williams suffered a knee injury during passing camp and may be lost for the entire season.​

Hill suffered a knee injury during a preseason game against Carolina, spent 2001 on IR, and was unable to play in the NFL after that. In 2015 he died far too young, one day shy of his 40th birthday due to complications from colon cancer. His brother Renaldo Hill also played in the NFL, from 2001 to 2010.

Raymond Millous “Ray” Hill (1975-2015) - Find a...

Professional Football Player. Hill played in the National Football League from 1998 to 2001 with the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, and the New England Patriots. He was three-year starter at Michigan State where he finished with 115 solo tackles, six interceptions, and four forced fumbles...

www.findagrave.com

Former MSU cornerback Ray Hill passes away at 39

Ray Hill was a standout cornerback at MSU for Nick Saban and position coach Mark Dantonio

www.freep.com

Renaldo Hill coaches with brother's memory in heart

Former NFL player Renaldo Hill is making his way as a coach at PItt after his brother, Ray, died from cancer in August.

www.lansingstatejournal.com

June 11, 2003:
Patriots release Shane Stafford

The quarterback went to UConn where he set the school career record with a 143.4 passer rating, and at the time was tied for the most passing touchdowns (73) and was second in most passing yards with 8,829. He went undrafted and played in the arena league from 2000 to 2002. After that he was on Cleveland's practice squad briefly in 2002 before being signed by the Pats on January 7, 2003. Stafford was allocated to the Scottish Claymores of the WLAF in '03. After being signed and released by the Tampa Bay Bucs, Stafford remained in Florida for the next five years playing arena football for the Tampa Bay Storm and Orlando Predators. His final season as a player was 2010; he worked as an arena league offensive coordinator from 2016 until its final year of operation in 2019.

Patriots release quarterback Shane Stafford

The New England Patriots announced the release of first-year quarterback Shane Stafford today.

www.patriots.com

News: SHANE STAFFORD HIRED AS QB COACH - National Arena League

The National Arena League (NAL) is a premier professional indoor football league delivering high-speed, high-scoring action in cities across the United Sta

www.nationalarenaleague.com

Former UConn QB Shane Stafford excited about direction Huskies are headed -- New Haven Register -- Dec 25, 2015

Shane Stafford was the starting quarterback on the 1998 UConn team that defeated Hampton in the first round of the NCAA I-AA playoffs before falling to Georgia Southern in the quarterfinals. He still owns the UConn career record with a passing rating of 143.4, and among UConn quarterbacks with at least 20 touchdown passes, he is the only one with twice as many TD passes as interceptions.​

Stafford’s class posted a 30-16 record, which was the most wins over a four-year span in UConn history. The 2010 class, which went 33-19, is the only group of Huskies to finish with more wins over a four-year span. By comparison, last year’s senior class won a total of 15 games.​

After playing for six teams during a 10-year professional career spent mostly in the Arena Football League, Stafford is making the transition to the coaching world. He was recently named the quarterbacks coach of the AFL’s Tampa Bay Storm, a team he played for from 2001-02 and 2004-06 throwing for 15,672 yards with 289 touchdown passes and 54 interceptions.​

June 11, 2008:

Pats waive 3

Rookie free agents TE Tyson DeVree, NT Henry Smith and DE Casey Tyler waived.

www.boston.com

The Patriots waived TE Tyson DeVree, NT Henry Smith and DE Casey Tyler — all of whom joined the team as rookie free agents this year — today. All three were longer shots to make the roster.​

In addition, ILB Eric Alexander officially signed his exclusive rights free agent tender, meaning he now counts against the 80-man roster limit.​

Tyson DeVree, Henry Smith, and Casey Tyler waived; Alexander (ERFA) re-signed

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/ Pats waive 3 Posted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff June 11, 2008 07:08 PM The Patriots waived TE Tyson DeVree, NT Henry Smith and DE Casey Tyler -- all of whom joined the team as rookie free agents this year -- today...

www.patsfans.com

Alexander played in 54 NFL games from 2004 to 2010, with 45 of those being with the Pats from '04 to '09.

DeVree would return to play in two games with the Patriots in 2008. Neither Smith nor Tyler ever played in the NFL.





June 11, 2009:

Patriots release Pass

The Patriots have released running back Patrick Pass a week after signing him.

www.espn.com

The New England Patriots have released running back Patrick Pass a week after signing him.​

Pass was cut Thursday, ending his bid to stick with the team he played for from 2000-06 as a backup. He was released after the 2006 season, played one game with the New York Giants in 2007 and then dropped out of football.​

Pass called coach Bill Belichick last Wednesday, had a workout and signed. He played as a running back and blocking back in his previous stint with the Patriots and started at fullback in their 2005 Super Bowl win over the Philadelphia Eagles.​

Pass was one of only seven current Patriots who were on all three of New England's Super Bowl champion teams.​

This turned out to be the end of the line for the pro football career of Patrick Pass, who played in 79 games from 2000 to 2007, with all but one for the Patriots. He also appeared in ten playoff games, and as mentioned above earned three super bowl rings.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News from the 2010s​

June 11, 2010:

Patriots release three, sign one

New England has signed running back Thomas Clayton while releasing three players.

www.boston.com

New England has announced the signing of running back Thomas Clayton, a sixth-round pick of the 49ers in 2007 out of Kansas State. Listed at 5-foot-11, 222 pounds, he spent all of 2007 and most of 2008 on San Francisco’s practice squad and missed all of 2009 on injured reserve.​

At the same time, the team has released a trio of players: receiver Bryan Anderson, punter David King and quarterback Mike Teel.​

Teel was claimed off waivers on May 24 after being released by Seattle; the Seahawks drafted the former Rutgers starter late in the 2009 draft. It is a bit of a surprise to have him released already.​

The 6-foot-5 Anderson was an undrafted rookie this year out of Central Michigan; he struggled to catch the ball at times, particularly during rookie mini-camp. King was a former semi-pro Aussie rules football player who learned how to punt at camps in the American southwest. He spent much of the time at recent OTA workouts shagging for Stephen Gostkowski’s kicks while rookie punter Zoltan Mesko held.​

Clayton moved back and forth between the Browns and Patriots in 2010. He appeared in two games for Cleveland, and also had six carries for the Pats in their week 17 victory over Miami. Clayton also played in three more games with the Browns in 2011.

Teel was signed by the Bears, but never got on the field in an NFL game. Anderson and King never played again as far as I know.





June 11, 2012:

Patriots Sign Reality TV Star Jesse Holley to Replace Chad Ochocinco at Wide Receiver - NESN.com

The Chad Ochocinco experiment didn't work out in New England. But it looks like the Patriots are going to test their luck with another reality TV star. Jesse Holley, a 28-year-old receiver and winner of the reality TV series 4th and Long, signed with the Patriots on Monday. After going undrafted...

nesn.com

The Chad Ochocinco experiment didn't work out in New England. But it looks like the [U[Patriots are going to test their luck with another reality TV star[/U].​

Jesse Holley, a 28-year-old receiver and winner of the reality TV series 4th and Long, signed with the Patriots on Monday.​

After going undrafted out of North Carolina in the 2007 NFL Draft, Holley was signed to the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad and spent two weeks with the team before being released. Holley was out of football for nearly two years before winning the final spot on the 2009 Dallas Cowboys training camp roster by winning the competition on former Cowboys' receiver Michael Irvin's reality show.​

The Patriots also signed two other players to their roster on Monday.​

Mike Ingersoll, 24, is a second-year offensive lineman out of North Carolina. The 6-foot-5, 300-pound tackle signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as a rookie free agent after going undrafted in 2011. He was released before the end of training camp and ended up linking on with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad for the final month of the season.​

Tight End Tyler Urban was also added to the 90-man training camp roster. Urban went undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft and spent a few weeks with the Buccaneers before being released in late May. Urban played both wide receiver and tight end in college at West Virginia, finishing his four year career with 37 catches, 429 yards and five touchdowns.​

Holley and Urban were two of 22 players waived as part of final roster cuts on August 31, and neither ever caught on with another NFL team.

The Patriots released Ingersoll ten days later. He spent the rest of the 2012 offseason with Tampa Bay before being waived with an injury settlement just before final cuts. Ingersoll played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL in 2013 before retiring from pro football.


As for Chad Ochocinco (who was cut by the Pats four days earlier), he was signed on this day by Miami to a one-year contract. Things didn't work out any better in south Florida than they did with Tom Brady throwing him the football; he would be released by the Dolphins a month later.

Chad Ochocinco signs with Dolphins

Chad Ochocinco is now a member of the Miami Dolphins, the team announced Monday.

www.cbssports.com

Chad Ochocinco has signed with the Miami Dolphins, the team announced Monday. CBSSports.com's Jason La Canfora reports that it's a one-year deal. The move comes four days after the Patriots released Ochocinco after one inglorious season.​

The Dolphins won six games in 2011 and, consequently, head into 2012 with a new coach (Joe Philbin) and a rookie quarterback (Ryan Tannehill). Ochocinco adds much-needed depth at wide receiver; currently, Brian Hartline, Davone Bess and Legedu Naanee are the team's top three wideouts. It doesn't matter who the quarterback is -- Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers or Matt Moore -- it's impossible to win consistently in the NFL with that cast as your primary pass-receiving options. Even a kid knows that.​

​

Ochocinco, 34, isn't the player he was during those heady Cincinnati days (he had six consecutive seasons of at least 1,100 yards receiving from 2002-2007), but he makes sense in Miami for several reasons. First, he has experience as a No. 1 wide receiver and for many years he's played the position at a Pro Bowl level. Second, whether owner Stephen Ross will admit it or not, it sure seems like the Dolphins are exploring all options when it comes to raising awareness about the 2012 season. That explains the decision to appear on HBO's Hard Knocks and, to an extent, why the organization would sign a possibly over-the-hill Ochocinco.​

So what does the move mean for the Dolphins' immediate future? Not much, really. With training camp some five weeks off, there are still plenty of unanswered questions, chief among them: who will be the starting quarterback? Conventional wisdom says it's Moore vs. David Garrard, with the former having a slight edge based on his play down the stretch in 2011. But with Tannehill already quite familiar with the offense, it's reasonable to think that he'll be under center at some point next season.​

Of course, with the need for warm bodies at wide receiver, Tannehill, who played the position the first two years of his college career (he caught 101 passes for 1,453 yards and nine touchdowns at Texas A&M), could be an early season option there. We're kidding about that but not about this: there's an argument to be made that Reggie Bush is the best receiver on the Dolphins -- with or without the addition of Ochocinco. That should give you some indication of just how far this team has to come in the next few months to be competitive in the AFC East this fall. Assuming Ochocinco makes the 53-man roster, he'll face the Bengals when Miami travels to Cincinnati in Week 5 and the Patriots in Weeks 13 and 17.​

June 11, 2014:

Patriots waive offensive lineman R.J. Mattes

The Patriots made a roster move Wednesday, waiving offensive lineman R.J.

www.nbcsports.com

The Patriots made a roster move Wednesday, waiving offensive lineman R.J. Mattes, who has had multiple stints with the club in the last year, including a practice squad role late in the 2013 campaign.​

The Patriots have worked out veteran free agents on multiple occasions this offseason, with cornerback Terrell Thomas and running back Brian Leonard among the other players who have reportedly visited. They have also shown a willingness to release and re-sign players multiple times, with Mattes and former Pats cornerback Marquice Cole among the players who jump to mind.​

Mattes was signed by Tampa Bay on August 21, and released four days later - ending his career in the NFL.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News from the 2010s​

June 11, 2015:
Patriots release TE Tim Wright

The transaction came less than ten months after the Pats had traded Logan Mankins to Tampa Bay for Wright and a 4th-round draft pick. Wright was one of many players from Rutgers to make their way to Foxborough. His production fell significantly, from 54 receptions for 571 yards as a rookie, to only 26 catches for 259 yards in his one season with the Patriots - though he also did have six touchdown receptions.


The Pats also released QB Garrett Gilbert, which would cause angst and seller's remorse on this forum a full five years later, because at that time he would get his first and only NFL start - a result of two injuries and ineffectiveness of a third Dallas quarterback. In addition undrafted Akron rookie WR Zach D'Orazio was let go. He would be re-signed on July 23 and waived on September 5 as part of final roster cuts, ending his brief flirtation with the NFL.

Zach D'Orazio - Football - University of Akron Athletics

Zach D'Orazio (11) WR - Plans to forego his final year of eligibility. As a Junior (2014): Recipient of the Harry “Doc” Smith Award Outstanding Junior Award ...

gozips.com

The Patriots offset the release of those players by signing four more, including QB Matt Flynn. He had played well in his first NFL start in a week 15 of 2010 31-27 loss at New England, admirably subbing for an injured Aaron Rodgers by throwing for 251 yards and three touchdowns.

In 2012 Flynn signed a three-year deal with Seattle, with $9 million guaranteed, and was penciled in to be the Seahawks starting QB. However, rookie Russell Wilson exceeded expectations and won the starting job out of training camp. Flynn was expected to be a veteran presence alongside Jimmy Garoppolo while Tom Brady served his unwarranted four-game suspension, but New England cut Flynn very early in training camp.

Besides Flynn, the Patriots also signed three longshot undrafted rookies that served as camp fodder, not making the roster.

New England Patriots sign three undrafted rookie free agents

The New England Patriots have signed Matt Flynn and three undrafted rookie free agents. They have released Tim Wright, Garrett Gilbert and Zach D'Orazio.

www.masslive.com

Gone from New England are tight end Tim Wright, quarterback Garrett Gilbert and undrafted rookie receiver Zach D'Orazio.​

Taking their spots are a trio of undrafted rookie free agents: Linebacker D.J. Lynch (Bowling Green) and tight ends Jimmay Mundine (Kansas) and Logan Stokes (LSU).​

Lynch is a 6-foot-2, 252-pound linebacker who was named First Team All-MAC as a junior at Bowling Green.​

Mundine, at 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, amassed 86 receptions, 1,082 yards and 11 touchdowns in his college career.​

Stokes, who checks in at 6-foot-5, 255 pounds, was primarily a blocking tight end at LSU.​

They join a deep group that includes roster locks Rob Gronkowski and Scott Chandler, as well as veterans Michael Hoomanawanui and Fred Davis, sixth-round pick A.J. Derby and converted tight end Jake Bequette.​

June 11, 2019:
Rather than another day of OTAs, Bill Belichick lets the players have some fun - well, fun for most of the players.

​

Bill Belichick chose paintball over practice for Patriots OTAs Monday - MassLive

On Monday morning, the Patriots announced they had canceled their final two OTA practices.​

On Tuesday, we learned why.​

New England players and coaches played paintball Monday during what would have been their penultimate practice of the offseason. The team posted a photo on its Twitter account Tuesday of the winning side led by running back James White and inside linebackers coach Jerod Mayo. Last year, coach Bill Belichick also cancelled the Patriots’ final OTA practices in favor of team-building activities.​

​

Patriots coach Bill Belichick shot Kyle Van Noy in the face with a paintball gun | Sporting News

www.sportingnews.com

Most of the players appeared to have fun, but the activity didn't end too well for linebacker Kyle Van Noy. On Tuesday, he was playing Fortnite with fellow teammate Dont'a Hightower when he shared his experience from the match.​

"I got hit, I'm telling you. This paintball hit me in the mask, and the mask hit my tooth and my s— still hurts," Van Noy said.​

Hightower teased him after, making him tell the audience who did it. Van Noy was reluctant at first before saying, "Bill got my ass."​

Patriots bail on OTAs to play paintball

Bill Belichick wanted the New England Patriots to have some fun. The coach canceled the final two sessions of organized team activities on Monday and Tuesday. Instead, the team played paintball on Monday. Here's a look at a photo of some of the team's players in…

patriotswire.usatoday.com

Patriots cancel OTAs to go paint-balling as a team instead

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick canceled the team's final two OTAs and took players paint-balling instead to build camaraderie and have some fun.

musketfire.com

New England head coach Bill Belichick has a heart after all – and may just be more fun-loving than you or I might normally give him credit for. The NFL’s resident “grumpy old man” decided to cancel the team’s final two OTAs that had been scheduled for Monday and Tuesday of this week in order to take his players and coaches paint-balling.​

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Threads and Articles from the 2000s​

2001:

NFL News and Notes 6/12 | PatsFans.com

The NFL announced on Tuesday that the starting times of this season's late regular-season Saturday afternoon games and Saturday playoff games will be revised to make those national telecasts available to a wider audience.

www.patsfans.com

The NFL announced on Tuesday that the starting times of this season’s late regular-season Saturday afternoon games and Saturday playoff games will be revised to make those national telecasts available to a wider audience.​

The move means that for the first time the NFL will have playoff games starting in primetime.​

2004:

Problem Children Highlight Spring Workouts

The feelings are the same. Law wants more money but is powerless to try and get it.

www.patsfans.com

The most positive thing that happened to the Patriots thus far in the offseason happened this week. For once, the Red Sox finally took their rightful place as second banana to the champion Patriots. The same day that Nomar Garciaparra returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Padres at Fenway, Ty Law told the world that he now wants to retire as a Patriot, and that all he said earlier in the offseason was basically taken out of context.​

The positive spin? One of the major Boston media organizations put the Law revelation as the top story, with Nomah at number two. Given the coverage of the Patriots and Red Sox last fall, that is simply remarkable. Only in Boston could a 14-2 campaign which ended in a Super Bowl win be totally overshadowed by the Red Sox almost acquiring Alex Rodriguez, and almost trading Garciaparra to the White Sox.​

2006:

Red Sox pastor Walt Day doubles as chaplain of Pats

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/ The Sox trickled into the Sox clubhouse little by little. There was a 10:45 a.m. chapel which many players attend with pastor Walt Day, who doubles as chaplain for the New England Patriots.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Red Sox pastor Walt Day doubles as chaplain of Pats'

Jun 11, 2006

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/

The Sox trickled into the Sox clubhouse little by little. There was a 10:45 a.m. chapel which many players attend with pastor Walt Day, who doubles as chaplain for the New England Patriots.

• pats1
• Replies: 2
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2007:

Which player has the funniest name in the NFL?

O.K. Its truly a long offseason and I hate June cause its really nothing to speak about regarding football except Mini camp so here I am wasting a bit more time on this wild off center topic...:rolleyes Who has the funniest NATURAL born name in the NFL?: My pick is T.J. Houshmenzada or...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Which player has the funniest name in the NFL?'

Jun 11, 2007

O.K. Its truly a long offseason and I hate June cause its really nothing to speak about regarding football except Mini camp so here I am wasting a bit more time on this wild off center topic...:rolleyes

Who has the funniest NATURAL born name in the NFL?:

My pick is T.J. Houshmenzada or Adawale Ogunleye

Your opinion on funniest name?

• PATRIOTSFANINPA
• Replies: 62
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2008:

Saw a MA license plate on the way to work today...

...on a Ford SUV of some kind. Keep in mind, this is a MA plate. ELI WON I puked a little in my mouth.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Saw a MA license plate on the way to work today...'

Jun 11, 2008

...on a Ford SUV of some kind. Keep in mind, this is a MA plate.

ELI WON

I puked a little in my mouth.

• cavtroop
• Replies: 30
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2009:

Pats sign 4th rounder: Rich Orhnberger

ProFootballTalk.com - Pats Ink Fourth-Rounder

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Pats sign 4th rounder: Rich Orhnberger'

Jun 11, 2009

ProFootballTalk.com - Pats Ink Fourth-Rounder

• KDPPatsfan85
• Replies: 42
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Threads and Articles from the 2010s​

2010:

Friday Patriots Headlines

www.patsfans.com

The topic of discussion yesterday was the fact that thanks to a report in the Denver Post, we learned that Patriots offensive lineman Logan Mankins was sent a letter from the team notifying him of their intent to lower his tender offer should he night sign by June 14th - the day before the start of mandatory minicamp.​

Mike Reiss reported late yesterday afternoon that in order to have some form of negotiating leverage, the Patriots needed to send that letter to at least have that option - although he feels that the chances of New England following through with it is highly unlikely. He points out previous comments by owner Robert Kraft who has said on more than one occasion that he hopes to get something done to keep him here.​

The Boston Globe offers up an interesting story with comments from other players, including Stephen Gostkowski - who was also a restricted free agent but signed his tendor. The Globe points out that one of the rules of the 2010 uncapped year stipulates that only players with six or more accrued seasons are eligible for unrestricted free agency. Previously that number has been four years, and unfortunately Gostkowski, along with Mankins, are victims of the system.​

Pats Sign RB Clayton, Release Three

www.patsfans.com

The Boston Globe reported on Friday that the Patriots have signed running back Thomas Clayton, a sixth-round pick of the 49ers in 2007 out of Kansas State. Clayton, who is listed at 5-foot-11, 222 pounds, spent all of 2007 and most of 2008 on San Francisco's practice squad and missed all of 2009 on injured reserve.​

At the same time, the team has released three players, casting off receiver Bryan Anderson, punter David King and quarterback Mike Teel.​

The release of Teel is interesting because he was only claimed off of waivers a week ago, as New England grabbed him after he was waived by the Seahawks. He also loses his ten minutes of fame after both the Attleboro Sun Times featured him, as did the Patriot Ledger in articles this morning.​

New after touchdown music

Any suggestions? The Bon Jovi/U2 music just doesn't fire up the fans.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'New after touchdown music'

Jun 11, 2010

Any suggestions? The Bon Jovi/U2 music just doesn't fire up the fans.

• kmac14
• Replies: 85
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2011:

DRAFT - Mayock: Solder has ‘tremendously high ceiling’

“To me, he’s one of the most gifted tackles I’ve seen in the last couple of years from a foot-technique perspective,” noted Mike Mayock. “However, I think he’s underpowered. He has a tremendously high ceiling. It makes sense form a left tackle perspective, because it gives Bill Belichick the...

www.patsfans.com

DRAFT Thread 'Mayock: Solder has ‘tremendously high ceiling’'

Apr 29, 2011

“To me, he’s one of the most gifted tackles I’ve seen in the last couple of years from a foot-technique perspective,” noted Mike Mayock. “However, I think he’s underpowered. He has a tremendously high ceiling. It makes sense form a left tackle perspective, because it gives Bill Belichick the ultimate flexibility in his offensive line.”

'Underpowered' will be fixed in short order.

This kid's got great feet and that can't be taught. Clady type potential here?

• rojo8401
• Replies: 151
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2012:

Former Patriot WR Chad Ochocinco signs with the Miami Dolphins

Source: Ochocinco signs with Dolphins - New England Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston Former Patriots wide receiver Chad Ochocinco has signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Ochocinco was released by the Patriots last Thursday, after the...

www.patsfans.com

R

Thread 'Former Patriot WR Chad Ochocinco signs with the Miami Dolphins'

Jun 11, 2012

Source: Ochocinco signs with Dolphins - New England Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston

Former Patriots wide receiver Chad Ochocinco has signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Ochocinco was released by the Patriots last Thursday, after the team was unable to trade the 34-year old pass catcher.

By signing with Miami, Ochocinco will now have a chance to play his former team twice this season, but he will have to wait a while: the two teams don't meet until Dec. 2 and Dec. 30.

• Ron Sellers
• Replies: 33
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2013:

Five Thoughts Following the Patriots Addition of Tim Tebow

Here are five thoughts on the arrival of Tim Tebow here in New England

www.patsfans.com

2) He's a versatile player: Tebow may not be an NFL caliber quarterback, but he's a terrific athlete and a big, strong guy. One of the comments about him two years ago when he was with Denver that Belichick mentioned was about how difficult he was to bring down. If Belichick can convince him to play other positions whether it's in the passing game or to create mismatches out of the backfield, he could give them an additional threat in the offense. Belichick loves guys who can do more than one thing and after the release of quarterback Matt Kafka, Tebow could also save them a roster spot as an emergency QB.​

3) The timing of this move doesn't make sense: The Patriots are obviously in transition offensively and bringing in Tebow doesn't make much sense considering he'll be taking snaps away from younger players. At this time of year any repetition a younger player can get are at a premium and this experiment takes away the opportunity for some of the newer players to get acclimated in the offense. This type of move would have made sense with an established veteran group, but right now the Patriots are trying to put together a new nucleus of offensive players and Tebow being here complicates that effort.​

Jabar Gaffney, Austin Collie in for tryouts

I guess we still have an open slot or two. Would think we'd use it on the defensive line.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Jabar Gaffney, Austin Collie in for tryouts'

Jun 11, 2013

I guess we still have an open slot or two. Would think we'd use it on the defensive line.

• BadMoFo
• Replies: 108
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2014:

Patriots Linebacker Position In Good Shape Entering Mini-camp

Jerod Mayo is back from a torn pectoral injury and by all accounts is fully involved in all of the OTAs and should be ready to go once training camp starts

www.patsfans.com

Much of the talk this off-season concerning the New England Patriots defense has centered on either the signing of cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner or the defensive line with so many key pieces returning from injury. However, the linebacker core, which is such a key to the front seven, has received scant attention. While depth behind the starters is still a bit thin, this unit is going to be a key to the defense's success in 2014.​

The unit suffered two key losses this off-season but the return of Jerod Mayo from injury, plus some free agent signings, has put the team in a much better position than they were back in February.​

Gone are both Brandon Spikes and Dane Fletcher, who signed free agent contracts respectively in Buffalo and Tampa Bay. Spikes was an intimidator in the running game as a tough, physical, down-hill player who brought a bit of needed edge to the defense. Fletcher was an underrated sub that could cover runners out of the backfield or tight ends across the middle.​

But Mayo is back from a torn pectoral injury and by all accounts is fully involved in all of the OTAs and should be ready to go once training camp starts. His return will be a big boost to the defense. Mayo was the signal caller and the best overall linebacker on the team and should hold down WILL or weak-side linebacker position this season.​

Spikes' position in the middle (MLB) will fall to Dont'a Hightower, who will slide over from the outside. Hightower is big (6'3,270) and physical enough to replace the departed Spikes in the running game and is a better player in coverage. His primary backup will be second year Rutgers MLB Steve Beauharnais, who basically had a red-shirt rookie season but has been reported to be much more comfortable in the defense this season. He was taking on a leadership role and barking out assignments in OTAs earlier this month.​

The strong side linebacker (SAM) will be taken over by 2nd year player Jamie Collins, who started slowly last year but really came on down the stretch and looks to be a valuable, versatile piece for the defense to utilize. The uber-athletic Collins (6'3,250) is a converted safety who can drop into coverage seamlessly or get after the quarterback. With his speed, it won't be a stretch to think that Bill Belichick will utilize him more in certain packages blitzing off the edge in 2014.​

Wednesday's New England Patriots Links 6/11 - How Pats' new D will help Brady

Here are this morning's Patriots links for Wednesday June 11th, 2014.

www.patsfans.com

PROVIDENCE JOURNAL:​

Reflective Robert Kraft marks 20 years as owner of Patriots - Mark Daniels: Daniels has a perspective on the fact this season will mark Robert Kraft's 20th anniversary owning the team.​

2015:

Butler's Punishment Could be More Detrimental than Construcive

Super Bowl XLIX hero, Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler, has been absent from the Organized Team Activities to this point, and now we have more details on the situation. Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reported Wednesday afternoon the second-year defensive back showed up late to the first...

www.patsfans.com

Tim Wright released

shalise manza young ?@shalisemyoung 1m1 minute ago #patriots have released TE Tim Wright Evidently had low chance of contributing.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Tim Wright released'

Jun 11, 2015

shalise manza young ?@shalisemyoung 1m1 minute ago

#patriots have released TE Tim Wright

Evidently had low chance of contributing.

• Mack Herron
• Replies: 242
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2016:

After Over 500 Days, Goodell's Comments Remain Head-Scratching | PatsFans.com

Raise your hand if the mere mention of the words Commissioner or the name Roger Goodell makes your eye twitch.

www.patsfans.com

Tom Brady Seeks Golf Advice From Jordan Speith In Latest Facebook Post | PatsFans.com

Tom Brady requests help from Jordan Speith to improve his golf shot.

www.patsfans.com

Raven's Breshad Perriman may miss the entire season, again

Last year the Ravens’ first-round draft pick, wide receiver Breshad Perriman, missed the entire season with a knee injury. This year it could happen again. Perriman suffered a partially torn ACL in his left knee, ESPN reports. Perriman will visit Dr. James Andrews on Monday and may need...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Raven's Breshad Perriman may miss the entire season, again'

Jun 11, 2016

Last year the Ravens’ first-round draft pick, wide receiver Breshad Perriman, missed the entire season with a knee injury. This year it could happen again.

Perriman suffered a partially torn ACL in his left knee, ESPN reports. Perriman will visit Dr. James Andrews on Monday and may need season-ending surgery.

That’s a huge blow to Perriman, who missed his rookie season with a partially torn PCL in his right knee.

Ravens’ Breshad Perriman injures knee, could miss season

Poor bastard is going down the Steve Emtman path...

He has my sympathy. Best wishes for...

• Deus Irae
• Replies: 25
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2017:

New England Patriots News 6-11, AFC East Notes | PatsFans.com

It was a historic comeback win, and the players deserve to have a ring that represents that accomplishment. So, we created the biggest Super Bowl ring ever

www.patsfans.com

Brady wielding the Infinity Gauntlet

I came across a cool picture, recently. Thought I'd share: The Mad Patriot: Fan Art Shows Tom Brady Wielding The Infinity Gauntlet

www.patsfans.com

R

Thread 'Brady wielding the Infinity Gauntlet'

Jun 11, 2017

I came across a cool picture, recently. Thought I'd share:



The Mad Patriot: Fan Art Shows Tom Brady Wielding The Infinity Gauntlet

• rexxar
• Replies: 11
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2018:

Why do we give Gostowski a pass for how unclutch he has been in the playoffs?

Think about it. I still say that if it weren’t for him, we beat Denver in 2015. Not only does it become a tie game at the end instead of going for 2, but odds are BB has more faith in letting him kick once or twice rather than constantly going for it on 4th down late in the game so many times...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Why do we give Gostowski a pass for how unclutch he has been in the playoffs?'

Jun 11, 2018

Think about it.

I still say that if it weren’t for him, we beat Denver in 2015. Not only does it become a tie game at the end instead of going for 2, but odds are BB has more faith in letting him kick once or twice rather than constantly going for it on 4th down late in the game so many times. So going for the FG and making it just one of those times would have been enough for us to win in regulation.

In the SB against Atlanta, he misses an extra point again. He’s lucky that Tom was able to somehow pull off two 2 point conversions in a row, otherwise he may have cost us another ring...

• Joey007
• Replies: 126
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2019:

PatsFans.com Patriots 53-man Roster Projection 1.0 | PatsFans.com

Edelman, Harry and Dorsett are locks. Meyers with his size and hands makes it yet another year with an UDFA making the roster out of training camp.

www.patsfans.com

Hard Knocks = Chucky and the Raiders

The Oakland Raiders will be the subjects of this year’s Hard Knocks. The NFL announced today that the NFL Films cameras will be in the Raiders’ camp for the show, which will air on HBO beginning August 6. Raiders to appear on “Hard Knocks”

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Hard Knocks = Chucky and the Raiders'

Jun 11, 2019

The Oakland Raiders will be the subjects of this year’s Hard Knocks.

The NFL announced today that the NFL Films cameras will be in the Raiders’ camp for the show, which will air on HBO beginning August 6.

Raiders to appear on “Hard Knocks”

• Deus Irae
• Replies: 27
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Threads and Articles from the 2020s​

2020:

Patriots Should Step Up and Take the Lead By Signing Colin Kaepernick | PatsFans.com

If the league and the Patriots in particular, want to do something substantive, they could sign Colin Kaepernick.

www.patsfans.com

Programming Alter: NFLN - Film Session with Stephon Gilmore Sat (6/13) 8pm EST

NFL Network: File Session - Stephon Gilmore Saturday, June 13th at 8:00 PM EST Apparently aired on Tuesday and is available on NFL Game Pass. You can find articles on reviewing highlights from the 22 minutes segment (though why read something when you can get the information first hand).

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Programming Alter: NFLN - Film Session with Stephon Gilmore Sat (6/13) 8pm EST'

Jun 11, 2020

NFL Network: File Session - Stephon Gilmore
Saturday, June 13th at 8:00 PM EST

Apparently aired on Tuesday and is available on NFL Game Pass.

You can find articles on reviewing highlights from the 22 minutes segment (though why read something when you can get the information first hand).

• RelocatedPatFan
• Replies: 0
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2021:

ICYMI Best Of Social Media: A Celebration Of Tedy Bruschi On His Birthday | PatsFans.com

Check out some of the best social media postings celebrating the football career of Tedy Bruschi on his birthday.

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PHOTOS: Brandon Bolden Reveals The Heartfelt Backstory For Changing His Jersey Number | PatsFans.com

Brandon Bolden reveals why he changed his jersey number from 38 to 25 for the 2021 season.

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Best Of Social Media: A Look Inside The Final Week Of Patriots OTA’s | PatsFans.com

The best social media postings from the third and final week of Patriots OTA's.

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Today In Patriots History - June 11 in Pats History: Defending the Wall

Today in Patriots History Grey Defends the Wall Happy 45th birthday to Grey Ruegamer Born June 11, 1976 in Las Vegas Patriot C/G, 2000-2002; uniform #67 Signed as a free agent on November 16, 2000 Gary Ruegamer played in 33 games over three seasons with the Patriots, with three starts. He...

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Today In Patriots History Thread 'June 11 in Pats History: Defending the Wall'

Jun 11, 2021

Today in Patriots History
Grey Defends the Wall​

Happy 45th birthday to Grey Ruegamer
Born June 11, 1976 in Las Vegas
Patriot C/G, 2000-2002; uniform #67
Signed as a free agent on November 16, 2000

Gary Ruegamer played in 33 games over three seasons with the Patriots, with three starts. He was a 3rd round pick by the Dolphins in '99 out of Arizona State, and signed by the Patriots off Pittsburgh's practice...

• jmt57
• Replies: 4
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2022:

12 wins, book it.

I can't believe this is (in my mind) thread-worthy, but I saw them picking the Pats to win 7 games on NFLN, and I'm seeing it become the sexy cliche that we have a big collection of 2s and 3s at the offensive skill positions, but no true #1s... and granted, I am buying reports out of camp about...

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Thread '12 wins, book it.'

Jun 11, 2022

I can't believe this is (in my mind) thread-worthy, but I saw them picking the Pats to win 7 games on NFLN, and I'm seeing it become the sexy cliche that we have a big collection of 2s and 3s at the offensive skill positions, but no true #1s... and granted, I am buying reports out of camp about Mac10.

So I see this as a 12-win team. I won't go through the usual stupidity of listing 17 games and saying (in June) "this player is really good, so I don't know how the Patriots answer, that game's an L...." that sort of thing.

Instead I want to say some really self-evident things based on...

• PatsFanInVa
• Replies: 218
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2023:

Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit | PatsFans.com

"For me, that's it: great management, a QB who loves the game, and a great defense." free agent WR DeAndre Hopkins

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NEW ARTICLE: Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit

Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit Steve Balestrieri "For me, that's it: great management, a QB who loves the game, and a great defense." free agent WR DeAndre Hopkins The post Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit appeared first on PatsFans.com...

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Thread 'NEW ARTICLE: Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit'

Jun 11, 2023

Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit
Steve Balestrieri
"For me, that's it: great management, a QB who loves the game, and a great defense." free agent WR DeAndre Hopkins

The post Patriots News 06-11, Minicamp Starts Monday, Hopkins Visit appeared first on PatsFans.com.

Continue reading...

(If you enjoyed this entry - hit the Thumbs Up/If not, hit the Thumbs down in this thread)

• PatsFans.com Article
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• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2024:

Tuesday Patriots Notebook 6/11: News and Notes | PatsFans.com

This is the point of the offseason where you typically hope an NFL rookie quarterback might start to turn a corner, and that appears to be what Patriots QB Drake Maye did on Monday.

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Patriots' Future Stars: Rookies Maye, Polk, and Baker's Work Ethic Impresses So Far | PatsFans.com

At this time of year, it's always good to see players working hard and trying to hone their craft, especially rookies who need to establish themselves as they start their NFL careers.

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How to Watch Tom Brady's Patriots Hall of Fame Induction, Other Rumors | PatsFans.com

Wednesday’s ceremony for Tom Brady is certainly expected to be one for the ages, with Brady set to receive his red jacket and be inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame, along with seeing his #12 be retired. The event is scheduled to begin at Gillette Stadium at 7:00pm, with the Patriots...

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Patriots Judon Focused on Football, Not Contract: "I'm not mad" | PatsFans.com

Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon has been at Gillette Stadium since mandatory minicamp began this week, with the veteran seemingly happy to be back with his teammates after a long offseason.

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Love is paid

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Thread 'Love is paid'

Jun 11, 2024

• Love The Drake
• Replies: 45
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2025:

Patriots Lineman Placed on Reserved/Retired List | PatsFans.com

According to the league's transactions, New England Patriots offensive lineman Wes Schweitzer has been placed on the "Reserved/Retired" list by the team. Schweitzer had reportedly been working at left guard with Cole Strange, which now leaves the club down one depth player at that spot.

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Patriots Coach on Pace For Return to Team | PatsFans.com

After experiencing a health scare, New England Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams has been away from the team and holding meetings mostly over Zoom in recent weeks.

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Thread 'Keion White on Mayo & Co.: "I was training myself..."'

Jun 11, 2025

Patriots' Keion White Rips Into Previous Coaching Staff Under Jerod Mayo

A young New England Patriots defensive end had a lot to say to the media about the team's old and new coaching staffs.

sports.yahoo.com

While this time of the year is a bit slow on the news end, every now and then a nugget comes out. Keion White, in an interview, said "I was training myself, I’m not going to lie... Now, I feel like I have a coach"

He goes on to praise Mike Smith for giving direction.

Now White is an interesting, polarizing player on this team. Some people here hold a lot of hope for him, some think his overpursuit and lack of discipline make him a bad player.

What're the hopes for White with this new staff? I have...

• Vindicate
• Replies: 40
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

2026:

MORSE: Day 2 of Patriots Mini-Camp | PatsFans.com

Analyzing Day 2 of Patriots Mini-Camp, Elijah Ponder and DeMario Douglas impressed, while Drake Maye works on pre-snap reads with consistent coaching.

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TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 6/11 | PatsFans.com

Here's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Thursday, June 11th, 2026.

www.patsfans.com

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Grey Ruegamer​

Happy 50th birthday to Grey Ruegamer
Born June 11, 1976 in Las Vegas
Patriots center/guard, 2000-2002; uniform #67
Signed as a free agent on November 16, 2000
Pats résumé: three seasons, 33 games (three starts); three playoff games

Gary Ruegamer played in 33 games over three seasons with the Patriots, with three starts. He was a third round pick by the Dolphins in '99 out of Arizona State, and signed by the Patriots off Pittsburgh's practice squad. A two-time Super Bowl champion, his claim to fame as a Patriot may be for blocking on Tom Brady's first career rushing touchdown against the Jets. Ruegamer later defended the wall, with these comments:

Grey Ruegamer: DeflateGate Punishment, Like Violation, Should Be Minor - NESN.com

No one is arguing that the New England Patriots shouldn’t be punished if the NFL finds they intentionally under-inflated footballs during their AFC Championship Game win over the Indianapolis Colts. But should the Patriots lose their spot in Super Bowl XLIX or should coach Bill Belichick be...

nesn.com

“If the quarterback wants to throw a beach ball or a shot put, so what? If the NFL was so worried about competitive advantage, why would they let teams use footballs all week for the game and only then provide brand new kicking balls pregame?”​

“The talking heads are trying to manufacture that it’s some significant competitive advantage to have a slightly deflated football. If that were the case then they should ban every conceivable ‘competitive advantage,’ like receivers’ gloves, taped ankles and strength and conditioning coaches.”​

“Odell Beckham likely doesn’t make that amazing catch without gloves. Jerome Bettis may have fumbled a lot more in his stellar career without those big neoprene sleeves on his arms to hold the ball in place. DeMarco Murray may not have played as well without piles of ankle tape help him make sharp cuts. And J.J. Watt may not have been the defensive machine he was because of his offseason training. All, at the end of the day, provide some form of competitive advantage depending on the quality and application of use.”​

As a rookie with Miami, Grey Ruegamer never saw the field once; he was a healthy scratch for all but one game, and received zero snaps in the one game he did dress. The Dolphins waived him near the end of training camp the following year, in 2000. Pittsburgh signed him to their practice squad, and from there the Pats signed him to their active roster. Grey became an unrestricted free agent in 2003 and signed with the Packers. The following year he was a starter at center when Green Bay set offensive franchise records that still stands for fewest sacks allowed (14) , as well as now broken records for most first downs (354), most net yards (6,357), and net passing yards (4,449). Grey last played for the Giants in 2008, and owns two super bowl rings: one with the Pats in 2001, the other with New York from 2007. Ruegamer played three seasons each in front of three very well known quarterbacks: Tom Brady, Brett Favre and Eli Manning.


On a side note, there was an interesting path as to how Miami ended up with the 72nd pick of the 1999 draft. which the Dolphins used to select Ruegamer:

1) Feb 18, 1998: Baltimore trades their third round pick (#72) of the 1999 draft to Tampa Bay for RB Errict Rhett.
2) April 19, 1998: The Bucs trade that draft pick back to the Ravens, for a 1998 fourth round pick.
3) March 17, 1999: Detroit trades QB Scott Mitchell to Baltimore for their third round pick (#72), and a 2000 conditional pick.
4) April 17, 1999: The Lions trade up two spots in the draft, sending #72 and a seventh round pick to Miami for #70.
5) Years Later: With the benefit of draft hindsight, Miami fans gnash their teeth. Detroit used their pick on DE Jared DeVries, who would play with the Lions for ten seasons. And one pick after the Ruegamer selection, Pittsburgh takes LB Joey Porter, who was named to three Pro Bowls while with the Steelers.


Grey Ruegamer - Official New England Patriots Biography

Grey Ruegamer was born in Scottsdale, Arizona on June 10, 1976 … Attended Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas … Voted team’s MVP his senior year … Posted an undefeated record as a heavyweight wrestler his junior year … Also lettered in track, where he competed in the shot put and the discus …​

Grey Ruegamer was signed to the Patriots 53-man roster from the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad on Nov. 16, 2000 ... Originally a third-round draft choice (72nd overall) of the Miami Dolphins in 1999 ... Released from the Dolphins following training camp in 2000 ... Signed onto the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad (8/29/00) … Re-signed with the Patriots (4/19/02).​

Made his first career start at center vs. Indianapolis (9/30/01) and blocked for a rushing attack which gained 177 yards and scored three touchdowns in 44-13 victory over the Colts.​

Ruegamer was a four-year letterman (1995-98) and starter at Arizona State … Started every game at center his senior year … Earned a Walter Camp All-America selection and a first-team All-Pac 10 choice … One of 12 finalists for the Lombardi Award … Graded out at 87 percent while posting 72 knockdown blocks as a senior for an offense that amassed 4,530 yards … Earned All-Pac 10 honors as a junior … Opened his junior season as the team’s starting left tackle before moving to center for the final six contests … Received honorable mention all-conference accolades as a sophomore when he saw time at both tackle and center.​

2000 Season​

Signed with the Patriots on Nov. 16, 2000 after spending the first 11 weeks of season on the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad … Participated as third tight end and on special teams with the Patriots. Cincinnati (11/19): Made his NFL debut against the Bengals. Kansas City (12/4): Called into action when left guard Joe Andruzzi injured his leg in the third quarter.​

2002 Season​

at San Diego (9/29): Started at center and played most of the game as part of an offensive line that did not allow a sack for the second time in three weeks … Helped clear the way for Antowain Smith to average 4.9 yards per carry. at Miami (10/6): Started at center and played most of the game as part of an offensive line that did not allow a sack in the second half as the Patriots attempted 24 passes. Green Bay (10/13): Inactive. Denver (10/27): Inactive. at Buffalo (11/3): Inactive. at Chicago (11/10): Stepped in for an injured Joe Andruzzi at right guard in the second half of the Patriots 33-30 win over the Bears in Champaign, Ill. … Part of a Patriots offensive line that allowed only one sack on 39 pass attempts in the second half … Helped pave the way for Brady to pick up a crucial first down on a quarterback sneak on fourth-and-three on the game-winning touchdown drive. at Oakland (11/17): Saw time at right guard in the second half in place of an injured Joe Andruzzi. at Detroit (11/28): Participated on special teams and as a reserve on the offensive line in the Patriots 20-12 win over the Lions on Thanksgiving. Buffalo (12/8): Saw time at center in the second half of the Patriots 27-17 win over the Bills … Part of an offensive line that did not allow a sack while paving the way for 92 yards rushing. at Tennessee (12/16): Saw action at center in the second half … Paved the way for Tom Brady’s first career rushing touchdown, a 10-yard quarterback sneak in the first quarter. N.Y. Jets (12/22): Lined up as an eligible receiver at tight end four times and participated in the kicking game.​

Packers.com, the official website of the Green Bay Packers

After being named the club's director of player engagement on July 31, 2017, Grey Ruegamer enters his ninth season in the role and 12th year overall in Green Bay after playing three seasons (2003-05) with the Packers as an offensive lineman. As the direc

www.packers.com

After being named the club's director of player engagement on July 31, 2017, Grey Ruegamer enters his seventh season in the role and 10th year overall in Green Bay after playing three seasons (2003-05) with the Packers as an offensive lineman.​

As the director of player engagement, Ruegamer is vital in maintaining locker-room cohesiveness and overall player health. He assists players in acclimating to their roles, both on and off the field and in the Green Bay community, and adapting to a new life in Green Bay.​

Ruegamer also oversees the Packers' wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of players and their families in today's NFL. The department provides a framework of assistance within which players and their immediate family members can address the pressures created by daily life and complicated by the demands of playing professional football. The program is also set up to get players prepared for life after football, and helps them seek educational and vocational opportunities.​

Ruegamer played 10 total seasons in the NFL on the offensive line, appearing in 124 games with 17 starts during the regular season and 12 contests with two starts in the postseason. After originally being selected by Miami in the third round (No. 72 overall) of the 1999 NFL Draft and spending one season with the Dolphins, he spent three seasons with the New England Patriots (2000-02) before spending his three seasons in Green Bay and playing the final three seasons of his career with the N.Y. Giants (2006-08). Ruegamer was a member of two Super Bowl champion teams, the 2001 Patriots and the 2007 Giants.​

Once his playing career wrapped up, Ruegamer spent three years (2009-10, 2013) as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Washington. He also earned his bachelor's degree from Arizona State in liberal studies as well as his master's degree in health and human performance from California University of Pennsylvania.​

Prior to his current role, Ruegamer was a certified wellness coach and worked at The Summit Medical Fitness Center in Kalispell, Mont., from 2014-16.​

A 1998 Walter Camp All-America honoree, first-team All-Pacific-10 selection and one of 12 finalists for the Lombardi Award, Ruegamer was a four-year starter at Arizona State (1995-98). He was inducted into the Sun Devil Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014.​

A native of Las Vegas, Ruegamer currently resides with his wife in Green Bay.​

Getting To Know...Grey Ruegamer

www.packers.com

A seasoned playoff participant, Ruegamer has now played in six postseason contests with one start -- including the Patriots' Super Bowl XXXVI victory over the St. Louis Rams.​

"Grey is a good person, a great individual," says offensive line coach Larry Beightol. "He does a lot in the community, especially with schools -- he's a model guy. I have nothing but respect and admiration for him. That's the kind of person he is and he'll do whatever it takes, he puts a lot into everything."​

What were you feeling when you played your first professional game?​

I was nervous. I was just hoping that I wouldn't mess up. My first game was with New England and we played the Bengals. I was excited and nervous and just hoping that I wouldn't make an assignment error.​

Who do you think is the greatest clutch performer of all-time?​

It's got to be the Boston Red Sox last year. Everyone thought they were down and out and then they came back and proved that anything goes. You should never count anyone out. They were the perfect example of that.​

A Grey Ruegamer prank once forced Rich Seubert to sell his truck

Former New York Giants LS Grey Ruegamer once pulled a prank that forced Rich Seubert to sell his truck.

sports.yahoo.com

The 2001 New England Patriots

Grey Ruegamer Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Grey Ruegamer Pro Football Record

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

profootballarchives.com

Grey Ruegamer - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Ed Koontz​

Happy 80th birthday to Ed Koontz
Born June 11, 1946 in Hanover, Pennsylvania
Patriots linebacker, 1968; uniform #54
Pats 17th round (440th overall) selection of the 1968 draft, from Catawba College
Pats résumé: one season, six games


Ed Koontz is the one and only person to play pro football from Littlestown High School, a small (population 4,782) borough fifty miles northwest of Baltimore, in Pennsylvania on the Maryland border. His college wasn't much bigger. Considering the size (enrollment: 1,207) and the reality that is a Division II school known for its academics, the fact that Catawba has somehow produced 16 NFL players - eight of whom were drafted - is relatively remarkable.

Littlestown (Littlestown, PA) Alumni Pro Stats | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Littlestown (Littlestown, PA) NFL Player Stats

www.pro-football-reference.com

Catawba Players/Alumni | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Catawba Players/Alumni

www.pro-football-reference.com

About

Catawba College is ranked #4 among the best colleges in the South. Located in historic Salisbury, NC, it is a private, coeducational liberal arts college established in 1851. Our mission is to enrich the educational experiences of students and to prepare them for productive, meaningful lives of...

catawba.edu

US News & World Report, Best Colleges: Catawba College, #4 in Regional Colleges South

Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame

www.catawbaathletics.com

Ed Koontz played in six games for the 1968 Patriots in what was the final season for Mike Holovak as the Pats head coach.

Nov 13, 2006:
Catawba Legends -- Ed Koontz

Ed Koontz played both ways for Catawba, so he figured specializing as an outside linebacker in the American Football League would be a breeze.​

"I was gonna thinking this is gonna be so easy," the affable Koontz said. "But then they started playing the games."​

"Everyone was big. Everyone was fast."​

The level of competition and an uncooperative hamstring explain why Koontz lasted just one season in the AFL. but he did start six games for the Boston Patriots as a rookie in 1968. That was over-achieving for a small-college guy taken in the 17th and final round of the draft.​

Koontz was honorable mention All-America and expected to be drafted by the the NFL's Dallas Cowboys.​

"Dallas was the team that had really shown lots of interest," Koontz said. "Then all of a sudden it was Boston. One of Boston's coaches had seen me play in an all-star game."​

Catawba Legends -- Ed Koontz, continued

The bottom line was the AFL playing fields Koontz was competing on were on par with the NFL.​

"I'm in the Patriots locker room, and I look around and see veterans like Earthquake Hunt and Houston Antwine and I knew how good the competition was," Koontz said. "I'd been watching these guys on TV for years."​

Koontz is still convinced the 1968 Patriots doomed themselves before the season started when they traded veteran quarterback Babe Parilli to the Jets for young QB Mike Taliaferro.​

With Taliaferro and undrafted free agent Tom Sherman calling signals, the Patriots started 3-3 but finished 4-10. The awful finish cost coach Mike Holovak his job.[/I]​

Many of Koontz's vivid memories are of clashes with the Jets. He intercepted a pass against New York in an exhibition game. That led to him starting both regular-season contests against them.​

"I started three times against New York - against Joe Namath," Koontz said. "That was a highlight. Playing with (Hall of Famer linebacker) Nick Buoniconti was a highlight. It was great playing with Nick before he went to Miami."​

According to the article above Ed went to work for Budweiser/Anheuser-Busch in 1970, and apparently stayed with them for quite a while.

Ed Koontz Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

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

www.pro-football-reference.com

Ed Koontz Pro Football Record

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

www.profootballarchives.com

Ed Koontz - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[XLIX]

Thought this thread was going in a whole 'nother direction....

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
More June 11 Birthdays​

Happy 27th birthday to Olakunle Fatukasi
Born June 11, 1999 in Far Rockaway, New Jersey
Patriots linebacker, 2023 offseason; uniform #47
Signed as a free agent on January 18, 2023
Pats résumé: one offseason


Ola Fatukasi was a team captain his senior year at Rutgers for head coach Greg Schiano in 2020, which made it inevitable that he would someday be signed to the Patriots by Bill Belichick. After going through all the OTAs and minicamps he was let go relatively early in training camp, waived on August 12. Fatukasi appeared in 13 games for the Bucs in 2022 and one more with the Rams in 2023, exclusively on special teams.

Olakunle Fatukasi - Football - Rutgers University Athletics

Olakunle Fatukasi (3) LB - 2022 NFL Contract (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) 2021 Butkus Award Semifinalist 2021 Third Team All-Big Ten (Media) 2021 Fourth Team All-Big

scarletknights.com

Former Rutgers LB Olakunle Fatukasi signs with New England Patriots

A former Rutgers player is on the move in the NFL.

247sports.com

Patriots sign linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi to a future contract

The New England Patriots announced that they have signed LB Olakunle Fatukasi to a future contract.

www.patriots.com

Patriots Make A Series of Transactions

The Patriots announced today that they have signed RB C.J. Marable, and OL Micah Vanterpool. To make room on the roster the Patriots released LB Olakunle Fatukasi and rookie free agent S Jourdan Heilig.

www.patriots.com

The New England Patriots announced today that they have signed RB C.J. Marable, and OL Micah Vanterpool. To make room on the roster the Patriots released LB Olakunle Fatukasi (pronounced O-la-COON-lay - fa-TOO-kah-see) and rookie free agent S Jourdan Heilig.​

Fatukasi, 24, was signed by New England on Jan. 18, 2023. The 6-foot-2, 240-pounder, originally signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a rookie free agent out of Rutgers on May 13, 2022. He made the 53-man roster out of training camp and played in 13 games and registered six special teams tackles. Fatukasi was released by Tampa Bay on Dec. 13 and finished the 2022 campaign on the Denver Broncos practice squad after being signed on Dec. 16.​

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

Ron Hallstrom, 67 (June 11, 1959)
Born in Holden MA
Ron Hallstrom was a 1982 first round pick by Green Bay from the University of Iowa. The 6'6 300 pounder went on to play 174 games at guard for the Packers and Eagles from 1982 to 1993.
July 28, 2010: Living the Good Life | Milwaukee Journal Sentinel


Gary Fencik, 72 (June 11, 1954)
Yale
Converted from WR at Yale to a defensive back in the pros. Fencik played safety for the Bears from 1976 to 1987 and was named an All Pro in 1981, and Pro Bowler in '80 and '81. He collected a ring from Super Bowl 20 and is Chicago's all-time leader in interceptions (38) and tackles.

#39 Gary Fencik - Northwest

John Morelli (1923 - 2004)
Born in Revere; Revere High School, class of '42
The Georgetown grad played in 19 games on the offensive line for the 1944-45 Boston Yanks.


Matt Peart, 29 (June 11, 1997)
Governor's Academy in Byfield MA, class of 2015; University of Connecticut, class of 2020
The 6'7" Jamaican born offensive lineman was a first team all-conference at UConn. He was a third round draft pick by the Giants in 2020 and has played in 66 games over four seasons for the Giants and Broncos.

Matt Peart Drafted by New York Giants - University of Connecticut Athletics

Former UConn offensive tackle Matt Peart was selected with the 99th overall pick in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the New York Giants on Friday ni...

uconnhuskies.com

Darnell Alford, 49 (June 11, 1977)
Boston College, class of 2000
A sixth round pick by the Chiefs in 2000, the offensive lineman appeared in five NFL games while bouncing between the Chiefs, Jets, Cowboys, Rams and Berlin Thunder.

1999 Spring Football Players to Watch - Boston College Athletics

Darnell Alford OL 6-4 323 Sr. Fredericksburg, VA (Chancellor) Started 9 games for the Eagles in the 1998 season after taking a year off from football for per...

bceagles.com

Four Eagles Make First Team All-Big East - Boston College Athletics

Dec. 1, 1999 CHESNUT HILL, Mass. -- Boston College defensive end Chris Hovan and safety Pedro Cirino join running back Cedric Washington and offensive tackle...

bceagles.com

There are also two June 11 birthdays that involve Pats draft day trades.

Jared DeVries, 50 (June 11, 1976)
April 17, 1999: Traded by Dolphins as 1999 3rd round pick (70th overall) to Lions for 1999 3rd round pick (72nd overall, Grey Ruegamer) and 1999 7th round pick (232nd overall, Jermaine Haley). [See the Grey Ruegamer post above]

DeVries played in 120 games for the Lions at defensive end from 1999 to 2008.



Lance Johnstone, 53 (June 11, 1973)
April 17, 1996: Traded by Raiders as 1996 2nd round pick (57th overall) to Patriots for Pat Harlow

April 20, 1996: Traded by Patriots as 1996 2nd round pick (57th overall) to Raiders for 1996 3rd round pick (76th overall subsequently traded , Ryan Stewart), 1996 4th round pick (124th overall, Kantroy Barber) and 1996 5th round pick (149th overall, Christian Peter)

Lance Johnstone played in 166 games as a defensive end for the Raiders and Vikings from 1996 to 2006.




Also born on June 11 (of 1956) was a guy with a name that sounds like a bit actor from a bad Hollywood movie: Joe Montana.

Joe Montana | Pro Football Hall of Fame

Joseph Clifford Montana. . .Third-round draft pick, 1979 . . .Master of come-from-behind victories. . .Led 49ers to four Super Bowl wins. . . Named Super Bowl MVP three times. . . Orchestrated 92-yard winning drive in closing seconds, Super Bowl XXIII. . .All-NFL three times and All-NFC five...

www.profootballhof.com

Cool Joe surprisingly does not have the most All-Pro awards for today's football birthday players. That honor would go to another Hall of Famer, FB Ernie Nevers, who was named an All Pro in every one of his five seasons in the NFL.

Ernie Nevers | Pro Football Hall of Fame

www.profootballhof.com

 

[jmt57]

Thought this thread was going in a whole 'nother direction....

I wasn't sure if anybody would notice that thread title. . .