Troy Brown

If one were to call anybody “the jack of all trades” the first man that would come to my mind would be Troy Brown. Troy Brown was selected in the 8th round of the 1993 NFL draft. Wait, another overlooked, unexpectedly talented player to play for the Patriots? Only reason I say that is because if he was selected in the 8th round that’s almost 300 picks, and for Troy Brown to fall that late in the draft it would be considered a steal for the Patriots. Another reason why I say that is because Tom Brady was selected in the 7th round, and he’s now considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Troy Brown in his entire 15 year career with the Patriots, had a resume that included 3 Super Bowl victories. Brown was drafted initially as a wide receiver, but at times would play a little defense as a cornerback, and also punt returned. Hence the “jack of all trades” nickname. Brown has retired as one of the top franchise leaders in receptions. In college, Brown was a standout wide receiver, punt returner, and kickoff returner.

Brown attended Marshall University, and in 1991 he led the division 1-AA in return average. Brown’s first year as a starter was in 2000. His stats for that year included 83 catches for 944 yards and 4 touchdowns. In 2001, which was Tom Brady’s first year as a starter, both led the Patriots to the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory. In that season, he recorded 101 receptions setting the franchise record for amount of receptions in a single season, as well as earning his first trip to the Pro Bowl. What made Troy Brown and his legacy wasn’t just because of his athleticism  on the field, but for the character off as well. Troy Brown’s loyalty and dedication for the New England Patriots was like no other. His punt return in the 2001 AFC Championship, as well as other big plays are something that will never be forgotten of Brown.     March 13th of 2008 came all too quickly for Patriots fans, with the announcing of the New England Patriots not offering Troy Brown a contract for the 2008 season, therefor his playing career coming to an end. Troy Brown will forever be idolized by New England Patriot fans, that statement being proved by Brown being inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2012 by fan vote.