7 Greatest New England Patriots of the 21st century

6. Vince Wilfork – DT

In 2004, the Patriots had two picks in the first round of the NFL Draft. With their first selection in round one, New England went with big Miami defensive tackle Vince Wilfork.

After being added to the Patriots’ roster, it didn’t take very long until Wilfork became a vital part of the team’s defense. In 2007, the talented defensive tackle earned his first of five career trips to the Pro Bowl and a spot on the Associated Press’ All-Pro Second-Team.

Wilfork continued his high level of play during the next few seasons and then in 2012, he had himself a career performance. That season, the New England defensive lineman ended the year with 48 total tackles, three sacks, three forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries.

His production in 2012 earned him his one and only First-Team All-Pro selection of his time in the NFL. Despite Wilfork’s performance that year, the Patriots still ended up falling to the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship.

But then two seasons later in 2014, he and New England were able to capture the franchise’s fourth Super Bowl victory. Wilfork had the opportunity to be a part of two Super Bowl winning teams during his tenure with the Patriots.

In 2017, after spending two seasons with the Houston Texans, the big defensive tackle signed a one-day contract with New England and announced his retirement.