Who are the greatest players to suit up in a New England Patriots uniform during their dominance of the NFL over the last 19 years?
No other team in the NFL has experienced as much success during the 21st century than the New England Patriots. And their success is something that no one really saw coming. Back in 2000, with Bill Belichick in his first season as the Patriots’ head coach, the team finished with a disappointing 5-11 record. However, that was also the same year in which New England used a sixth-round draft pick on some guy named Tom Brady.
In 2001, the future for Belichick with the Patriots wasn’t looking too bright after the team lost three of their first four games of the season. Then New England was forced to insert Brady in as their starting quarterback in Week 3 and the franchise has never been the same since.
Once Tom Terrific became the Patriots’ starting signal-caller, all the team has done is win 16 division titles, nine conference championships, and six Super Bowls. So one could say they have won a few important games over during the last 18 seasons.
During this time period, New England has been able to maintain a high level of success with a variety of different players. Guys that have been able to come in and help the Patriots pick up right where they left off.
Some of these players will be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day and some already are. Others will still be remembered for their great contributions over the years.
Of everyone who has put on that red, white, and blue New England jersey since the 2000 season, which seven should be thought of as the absolute best?