Before the Patriots became the league's model franchise, how did you define what a Patriot was? An over-achiever. Played all-out and with heart. Never gives up. A clutch player in big games. Willing to do anything to help the team win.
Troy Brown was a true definition of what a Patriot was before they became the franchise everyone loves to hate today. Overachiever? An eighth-round draft pick in 1993 who became the team's all-time leader in receptions. Never gives up? He was cut by then-head coach Bill Parcells before hooking back up with the Pats for good. Willing to do anything? Even as a full-time receiver, he played special teams and was a excellent punt returner. He even switched to defense and played cornerback.
Clutch? Pick a favorite moment. He was a part of so many clutch plays. The 2001 AFC Championship he returned a punt for a TD to open the scoring. Later Brown recovered a blocked field goal and had the awareness to lateral the ball to Antwaan Harris to take it the distance. How about Super Bowl XXXVI? His 23-yard catch and run was the biggest play in the drive that set up Adam Vinatieri's game-winning field goal. Remember the catch Brown made while lying on his back? How about the 82-yard touchdown catch against Miami in overtime? And who can forget Brown stripping San Diego's Marlon McCree after an interception in the 2006 AFC Divisonals? The list goes on and on.
I know my heart stopped when I heard the Patriots wouldn't re-sign Brown earlier this year. I understand football is a business and I expected the Brown decision. But it still hurt when the franchise announced the move. And I wouldn't be able to stomach watching Troy play for another team.
Fortunately Brown never signed elsewhere and he retires as a player who spent his whole career with the Patriots. Yeah a part of me dies as Troy hangs it up, but his career is buried in native ground, as it should be. Thanks for 15 wonderful years, Troy Brown. I look forward to when you're added to the Patriots Hall of Fame.
