The entire football world is in mourning after the tragic death of three-time Super Bowl champion David Patten. Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said the former NFL wide receiver was killed in a motorcycle crash outside Columbia, South Carolina. He was only 47 years old.
South Carolina Highway Patrol Lance Cpl. Nick Pye gave details about the said incident, saying that Patten while riding his motorcycle, crossed the median and caused a crash involving two other cars. Pye told reporters that one of the cars' drivers suffered undisclosed injuries and was taken to a hospital.
Patten remembered for his heroics for New England
Patten suited up for five teams over his 12-year NFL career, but he is best known for his highly successful four-season stint with the New England Patriots from 2001-04. He made two iconic catches during the 2001 season that helped the Patriots capture their first Super Bowl title.
Patten caught an 11-yard touchdown pass from Drew Bledsoe during New England's 24-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship Game. He then etched his name in Patriots' lore when he connected with Tom Brady for a critical 8-yard touchdown reception during the second quarter of the Super Bowl.
Such a memorable touchdown.
— Raul Martinez (@RaulNBCBoston) September 3, 2021
Tom Brady’s first post season TD pass, but it was the grab I’ll remember.
RIP, David Patten.
Sad news today about a Patriots legend. pic.twitter.com/rX9owxuhbk
That was Brady's first-ever postseason touchdown pass and the Patriots' lone offensive touchdown in that game as they went on to defeat the St. Louis Rams in a thriller, 20-17. Patten went on to win two more Super Bowl titles with New England in 2003 and 2004. He described his time with New England as the highlight of his NFL career when he retired during the Pats training camp in 2010.
Tributes immediately came pouring in for Patten once news broke of his sudden passing. Patriots owner Robert Kraft released a statement, telling everyone of Patten's impact on the football field and the pulpit.
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Kraft, Brady, and Belichick pay tribute to Patten
Kraft said, "He was a devout Christian who followed his passion following his football career and founded his own ministry." Kraft added that Patten "transitioned from an undersized and understated wide receiver to a powerful and passionate preacher" and that "he will always be remembered as a three-time Super Bowl Champion" in New England.
Bill Belichick also paid tribute to his former ward, saying that it breaks his heart to "hear of David's tragic passing at such a young age." Belichick also said that he is grateful to have coached Patten, an essential player in Patriots history. He gave Patten the ultimate compliment, saying that they "would not have been Super Bowl champions without him."
Seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady also shared a message for Patten, saying he was the consummate professional and that his love goes out to David's family.
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