15 years ago today, former New England Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi made his emotional return to football just eight months after suffering a stroke.
Back in February 2005, and just days after his first ever Pro-Bowl appearance, Bruschi suffered a mild stroke and underwent surgery for a hole in his heart. At the time, his NFL future largely in doubt.
Fast forward to October 30th of that year, Bruschi would in fact return to football after months of successful rehabilitation.
Take a look back on the anniversary of Bruschi’s first game back courtesy of the Patriots social media team below.
Bruschi logged two tackles and assisted on five more as the Patriots came from behind to beat the Bills 21-16, with 14 points coming in the fourth quarter.
For his efforts, Bruschi was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week.
“I’d been training for this for a long time,” Bruschi said postgame. “It felt like the first game back, but I still feel I can get better.”
On his Instagram Friday, Bruschi also reflected back on the memories.
“15 years ago today I made my comeback to the NFL after suffering a stroke. Comebacks are possible.”
Bruschi wound up playing in all but one game the remainder of the 2005 season. He was later named the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year, an honor he shared with Steve Smith of the Carolina Panthers. He would go on to play three more seasons before retiring in 2009.
Since his first stroke, Bruschi established Tedy’s Team, an organization meant to aid stroke victims and raise awareness of the importance of recognizing its warning signs.
Support Us: We're Currently Invisible in Google News
We need your help. A recent algorithm change has destoyed our traffic, and we need a quick moment of your time.
If you enjoy our content, please help us gain visiblity in Google's algorithm by adding us as a preferred source on Google News.
Click the button below and check the box next to "PatsFans.com"
Add as a preferred source on Google News
More Patriots News Headlines:
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 8/17
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Monday, August 17, 2026.
Monday Patriots Notebook 8/17: Gonzalez Has a Big Decision to Make
By: Ian LogueChristian Gonzalez faces a crucial contract decision after Devon Witherspoon's record deal. The Patriots also get injury updates & test kicker Borregales.
Patriots News 08-16, Post PS Game #1 53-Man Roster Projection
By: Steve BalestrieriAnalyzing Patriots' first preseason game observations and a detailed 53-man roster projection. Key player performances and position battles are highlighted.
MORSE: Notes & Analysis of Patriots Training Camp – Day 15
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots Training Camp Day 15, featuring Drake Maye's practice performance, Romeo Doubs' standout day, Ben Brown's injury status, and PFF grades.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 8/15
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
