New England Patriots facts for kids
Quick facts for kids New England Patriots |
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| Basic info | |||||||||||||
| Established | November 16, 1959 | ||||||||||||
| Stadium | Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts |
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| Headquartered | Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts |
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| Colors | Nautical blue, red, new century silver, white |
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| Fight song | "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" | ||||||||||||
| Mascot | Pat Patriot | ||||||||||||
| Personnel | |||||||||||||
| Owner(s) | Kraft Group Robert Kraft, Chairman |
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| CEO | Robert Kraft | ||||||||||||
| President | Jonathan Kraft | ||||||||||||
| General manager | Eliot Wolf | ||||||||||||
| Head coach | Mike Vrabel | ||||||||||||
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| League / conference affiliations | |||||||||||||
American Football League (1960–1969)
National Football League (1970–present)
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| Championships | |||||||||||||
| League championships: 6 |
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Conference championships: 11
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Division championships: 22
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| Playoff appearances (28) | |||||||||||||
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The New England Patriots are a professional American football team. They are based near Boston, Massachusetts. The Patriots play in the National Football League (NFL). They are part of the American Football Conference (AFC) East division. Their home games are played at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This stadium is about 22 miles (35 km) southwest of Boston. Robert Kraft has owned the team since 1994. As of 2024, the Patriots are one of the most valuable sports teams in the world. They have sold out every home game since 1994.
The team started in 1959 as the Boston Patriots. They were a founding member of the American Football League (AFL). They joined the NFL in 1970 when the AFL and NFL merged. The Patriots played in different stadiums around Boston. This included Fenway Park from 1963 to 1969. In 1971, the team moved to Foxborough. They changed their name to the New England Patriots. They played at Foxboro Stadium until 2002. That's when Gillette Stadium opened.
The Patriots were not very successful until Robert Kraft bought them. In 2001, they had amazing success. This was under head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. This started a period where they dominated the league until 2019. This time, known as the Brady–Belichick era, is one of the greatest sports dynasties. The Patriots hold many Super Bowl records. They are tied for the most Super Bowl wins (6) with the Pittsburgh Steelers. They also have the most Super Bowl appearances (11) and losses (5).
The team also holds other NFL records. These include the most wins in a 10-year period (126 from 2003 to 2012). They also have the longest winning streak (21 games from 2003 to 2004). They had the most consecutive winning seasons (19 from 2001 to 2019). They also made the most consecutive conference championship appearances (8 from 2011 to 2018). The Patriots also won the most consecutive division titles (11 from 2009 to 2019). They are the only team to have an undefeated 16-game regular season (2007). They also have the highest winning percentage in the postseason (.638).
Contents
Team History and Evolution
Founding the Boston Patriots
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On November 16, 1959, Boston businessman Billy Sullivan got the eighth and final team for the new American Football League (AFL). People in Boston suggested names for the team. The most popular choice was the "Boston Patriots." This name honored the colonists who fought for American independence. The state of Massachusetts played a big part in the American Revolution. Soon after, artist Phil Bissell created the "Pat Patriot" logo.
The Patriots did not have one main home stadium in the AFL. They played at different fields in Boston. These included Boston University Field, Harvard Stadium, Fenway Park, and Boston College's Alumni Stadium. In the 1963 season, they won their first playoff game against Buffalo. They then lost the AFL championship game to the San Diego Chargers 51–10. They did not reach the playoffs again for 13 years.
Joining the NFL and Moving to Foxborough
When the NFL and AFL merged in 1970, the Patriots joined the American Football Conference (AFC) East division. They still play in this division today. In 1971, the Patriots moved to a new stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This stadium was their home for the next 30 years. Because of the move, they changed their name from the Boston Patriots. They first thought of "Bay State Patriots," but the NFL said no. On March 22, 1971, they officially became the New England Patriots.
During the 1970s, the Patriots had some good seasons. Under coach Chuck Fairbanks, they made the playoffs in 1976 and 1978. They lost in the first round both times. Later, under coach Raymond Berry in 1985, the team reached its first AFC Championship. They made it to Super Bowl XX, but lost to the Chicago Bears 46–10. They returned to the playoffs in 1986 but lost early.
New Ownership and the "Flying Elvis" Era
The team changed owners several times in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Victor Kiam bought the team in 1988, then sold it to James Orthwein in 1992. Orthwein made big changes. He hired former New York Giants coach Bill Parcells in 1993. Orthwein also changed the team's look. The traditional red, white, and blue colors were replaced with blue and silver. A new logo, nicknamed the "Flying Elvis," was introduced. Orthwein wanted to move the team to St. Louis. However, Robert Kraft, who owned Foxboro Stadium, refused to let them break the stadium lease. Kraft then bought the team in 1994 for $175 million.
Under Kraft's ownership, Parcells led the Patriots to two playoff appearances. This included Super Bowl XXXI after the 1996 season. They lost that game to the Green Bay Packers 35–21. Pete Carroll took over as coach and also led the team to the playoffs twice in 1997 and 1998.
The Brady–Belichick Dynasty
In 2000, the Patriots hired head coach Bill Belichick. Their new home, Gillette Stadium, opened in 2002. In the 2001 season, starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe was injured. Backup quarterback Tom Brady, who was drafted in the sixth round in 2000, became the starter. Brady played so well that Bledsoe never got his job back. Brady became the team's starting quarterback for the next 18 years.
Under Belichick and Brady, the Patriots became one of the most dominant teams in the NFL. Many called their time together a "dynasty". They won three Super Bowls in four seasons: 2001, 2003, and 2004. They beat the St. Louis Rams, Carolina Panthers, and Philadelphia Eagles. In 2007, the Patriots had a perfect 16–0 regular season. They were only the fourth team in NFL history to go undefeated in the regular season. They reached Super Bowl XLII but were upset by the Giants. This ended their perfect season at 18–1.
The Patriots returned to the Super Bowl in 2011 but lost again to the Giants. In 2014, they won Super Bowl XLIX by beating the Seattle Seahawks 28–24. Rookie cornerback Malcolm Butler made a game-winning interception at the goal line. New England became the first team to reach nine Super Bowls in the 2016–17 playoffs. They faced the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. The Patriots were losing 28–3 in the third quarter. They made an amazing comeback, scoring 25 points to tie the game. In the first overtime in Super Bowl history, the Patriots won their fifth Super Bowl.
The Patriots reached their tenth Super Bowl in the 2017–18 playoffs. They lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII. They returned for a third straight Super Bowl in Super Bowl LIII. They defeated the Los Angeles Rams 13–3. This was their sixth Super Bowl win, tying the Pittsburgh Steelers for the most in NFL history.
Recent Seasons and Coaching Changes
After the 2019 season, the team lost in the first round of the playoffs. Tom Brady left the Patriots after 20 seasons. He signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Patriots signed veteran quarterback Cam Newton to replace him. In 2020, the team missed the playoffs with a 7–9 record. This was their first losing season in two decades. The team drafted Mac Jones in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft. Jones became the starting quarterback. He led the team to the playoffs in 2021. They lost 47–17 to the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card round. The Patriots finished 8–9 in 2022 and missed the postseason.
After a tough 4–13 record in the 2023 season, the Patriots and Bill Belichick decided to part ways on January 11, 2024. Belichick had been the head coach for 24 years. The next day, the Patriots promoted Jerod Mayo to head coach and Eliot Wolf to general manager. Mac Jones was traded in the 2024 offseason. The Patriots selected Drake Maye third overall in the 2024 NFL draft. This was their highest draft pick in 31 years. After the 2024 season, the Patriots fired Jerod Mayo. Mike Vrabel was named head coach.
Team Logos and Uniforms
Primary Logos
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The Patriots' first main logo, "Pat Patriot", used from 1961 to 1992. It is now a secondary logo. -
The Patriots' current main logo, the "Flying Elvis", used since 1993. The blue color was darkened in 2000.
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The Patriots' first helmet logo in 1960 was a simple tricorne hat. From 1961 to 1992, they used a logo of a Revolutionary War minuteman hiking a football. This logo became known as "Pat Patriot". It later became the name of the team's mascot.
In 1993, the team introduced a new logo. It showed the gray face of a minuteman wearing a red, white, and royal blue hat. This hat looked like a flowing banner. People called it the "Flying Elvis" because it looked like a young Elvis Presley. A new script logo was also introduced. In 2000, the blue color on the "Flying Elvis" and the wordmark was changed to a darker nautical blue. On July 3, 2013, the Patriots unveiled a new wordmark. It used modern block letters instead of cursive. The "Flying Elvis" was moved to be underneath the letters.
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The Patriots' wordmark used from 1960 to 1992. -
The Patriots' wordmark used from 1993 to 2013, with a darker blue since 2000. -
The Patriots' wordmark used since 2013. A version with a small "Flying Elvis" is also common.
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Team Uniforms
1960–1992 Uniforms
The Patriots' main uniforms stayed mostly the same from 1960 until 1993. They wore red jerseys with white numbers at home. On the road, they wore white jerseys with red numbers. Both uniforms had white pants and white helmets. The "Pat Patriot" logo was added to the helmets in 1961. In 1973, the numbers on the jerseys got a blue outline. The team sometimes wore red pants with their white jerseys.
1993–1999 Uniforms
Before the 1993 season, the Patriots completely changed their look. They introduced the "Flying Elvis" logo. The new uniforms had a royal blue home jersey and a white away jersey. The helmet was silver with the "Flying Elvis" logo. Both uniforms used silver pants. The home uniforms later switched to white numbers with a red outline. In 1995, the Patriots changed their numbers to a more modern, rounded font.
2000–2019 Uniforms
In 2000, the Patriots changed their numbers back to block style. The blue color was changed to a darker nautical blue. Silver stripes were added to the home jersey, and blue stripes to the away jersey. The team also introduced blue pants to wear with the white jersey. This gave a better contrast. The numbers on the white jersey changed from red to blue.
2020–Present Uniforms
In 2020, the Patriots updated their uniforms again. Their all-blue "Color Rush" design became the main home uniform. A matching white uniform was also introduced, paired with blue pants. Both uniforms had shorter shoulder stripes, like the old "Pat Patriot" uniforms. Interestingly, these new jerseys arrived just after Tom Brady left the team.
In 2022, the Patriots brought back silver pants to wear with their current uniforms. These new silver pants had thicker red stripes. In 2024, the Patriots started using the silver pants full-time with both their home and away uniforms.
Alternate Uniforms
In 1994, the Patriots wore their old "Pat Patriot" helmets and striped pants for the NFL's 75th anniversary. In 2002, they brought back a red jersey as an alternate, with the old "Pat Patriot" helmet. In 2003, they changed their alternate to a silver jersey with blue pants. These were used until 2007. In 2009, the red alternate was brought back with the "Pat Patriot" helmet. The red alternate was temporarily retired in 2013 due to a new NFL rule. However, after the NFL allowed alternate helmets again in 2022, the Patriots brought back the red uniforms.
In 2016, the Patriots wore all-navy uniforms for the NFL's Color Rush program. These uniforms had stripes like the 1980s "Pat Patriot" era. In 2017, an all-white Color Rush uniform was introduced.
Team Facilities
Stadium and Headquarters
Since 2002, the Patriots' home stadium has been Gillette Stadium. This $350 million facility was paid for by Robert Kraft. It is in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The stadium also has the team's practice facilities and offices. The field was originally grass but was changed to FieldTurf in 2006. In 2023, the Patriots installed a new video board, the largest in the United States. Gillette Stadium has hosted many playoff games. The Patriots have a strong playoff record there. The area around the stadium was developed into a shopping and entertainment center called Patriot Place.
Before 2002, the Patriots played at Foxboro Stadium from 1971. The last game there was the famous "Tuck Rule Game" in 2002. The Patriots won that snowy playoff game against the Oakland Raiders. Before Foxboro Stadium, the Boston Patriots played at several fields in or around Boston.
Stadium History
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| Stadium | Location | Duration |
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| Boston University Field | Boston, Massachusetts | 1960–1962 |
| Fenway Park | 1963–1968 | |
| Alumni Stadium | Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts | 1969 |
| Harvard Stadium | Allston, Massachusetts | 1970 |
| Foxboro Stadium | Foxborough, Massachusetts | 1971–2001 |
| Gillette Stadium | 2002–present |
Training Camp and Practice
The Patriots hold their training camp and practices next to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. They have two practice fields for the team. Before 2003, the Patriots held training camp at different places. These included Bryant College in Rhode Island and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Team Aircraft
In 2017, the Patriots bought two Boeing 767-300ER planes for the team. This made them the first NFL team to own their own planes. These planes are sometimes called "AirKrafts" after owner Robert Kraft. Kraft has used one of the planes for good causes. For example, he lent it to transport students to the March for Our Lives event in Washington, D.C. in 2018.
Team Rivalries
The Patriots have played most often against other teams in their AFC East division. These are the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets. They also have rivalries with teams outside their division. These include the Indianapolis Colts, Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Las Vegas Raiders. They also had a memorable rivalry with the New York Giants.
Divisional Rivals
New York Jets Rivalry
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The rivalry with the New York Jets is the closest geographically. Both teams started in 1960 and have been in the same division since. The rivalry became more intense after 1996. That's when Patriots head coach Bill Parcells left to coach the Jets. Four years later, Bill Belichick resigned as Jets coach to become the Patriots' head coach. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series 75–55–1.
Buffalo Bills Rivalry
The Patriots and Bills were both founding members of the AFL. They have been divisional rivals since the AFL–NFL merger. Before Tom Brady, the rivalry was usually calm. However, Brady dominated the Bills during his time as Patriots quarterback. He had a 32–3 regular-season record against them. After Brady left, the Bills swept the Patriots in 2020. This included a big 38–9 loss for the Patriots at home. In the 2021–22 NFL playoffs, the Bills beat the Patriots 47–17. This was the first playoff game between them in almost 60 years. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series 78–50–1.
Miami Dolphins Rivalry
The Patriots first played the Miami Dolphins in 1966. The Dolphins were very strong against the Patriots in the 1970s and 1990s. The Patriots and Dolphins are the only two teams in the Super Bowl era to have undefeated regular seasons. Miami went 14–0 in 1972, and the Patriots went 16–0 in 2007. Famous moments include the Snowplow Game and the Miracle in Miami. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Dolphins lead the all-time series 63–55.
Conference Rivals
Indianapolis Colts Rivalry
The Patriots' rivalry with the Indianapolis Colts was strong when they were both in the AFC East (1970–2001). They had many close games. Even after they moved to different divisions in 2002, the rivalry continued. Both teams were among the best in the AFC. They were led by great quarterbacks, Peyton Manning for the Colts and Tom Brady for the Patriots. They met three times in the playoffs between 2003 and 2006. The winner of those games went on to win the Super Bowl each time. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series 53–32.
Baltimore Ravens Rivalry
The Ravens first played the Patriots in 1996. The rivalry really began in 2007 when the Ravens lost a close game to the undefeated Patriots. It grew more intense in 2009. The Ravens beat the Patriots in the 2009 AFC Wild Card playoff game. This was their first win against the Patriots. They met again in the 2011 AFC Championship Game, which the Ravens lost. The Ravens won their first regular-season game against the Patriots in 2012. They also beat the Patriots in the 2013 AFC Championship. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series 11–6.
Denver Broncos Rivalry
The Broncos and Patriots played twice a year in the AFL from 1960 to 1969. They played in the very first AFL game in 1960. Since 1995, they have met often in the regular season. They have played five times in the playoffs. The Broncos have won four of those playoff games. The rivalry became even stronger when Peyton Manning became the Broncos' quarterback from 2012 to 2015. Manning and Tom Brady had a famous rivalry. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Broncos lead the all-time series 31–25.
Pittsburgh Steelers Rivalry
The Pittsburgh Steelers became a big rival when the Patriots upset them in the 2001 AFC Championship Game. The Patriots have a strong playoff record against the Steelers, winning four out of five games. The Steelers ended the Patriots' 21-game winning streak in 2004. The Patriots later beat the Steelers in the AFC Championship that season. In the Bill Belichick era, the Patriots have a 12–4 record against the Steelers. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series 19–17.
Las Vegas Raiders Rivalry
The rivalry between the Patriots and the Raiders goes back to their AFL days. It became more intense after a 1978 preseason game. The two teams met in a famous playoff game in 2002, known as the "Tuck Rule Game". A controversial call overturned a fumble by Tom Brady. The Patriots went on to win in overtime and eventually won the Super Bowl. Since that game, the Patriots have won most of their regular-season games against the Raiders. As of the end of the 2024 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series 20–18–1.
Interconference Rivals
New York Giants Rivalry
The Patriots and New York Giants rarely played each other because they are in different conferences. However, their rivalry became famous in the late 2000s. This was due to close games and memorable moments between Tom Brady and Eli Manning. In 2007, the Patriots defeated the Giants to finish a perfect 16–0 regular season. But they lost to the Giants in Super Bowl XLII, ending their perfect season. The Giants also beat the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI. As of the end of the 2024 season, the series is tied 7–8.
Team Strategy and Influence
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Under head coach Bill Belichick, the Patriots used special strategies on and off the field. On the field, they often used a "two-gap 3-4 defensive system." This system was developed in New England in the 1970s. Belichick, who worked under Bill Parcells, continued to use and improve this system.
Belichick's philosophy focused on the "team" concept. This meant stressing preparation, hard work, players being able to play many positions, and no individual ego. This approach, called the "Patriot Way," led to six Super Bowl wins. It has been studied in books and documentaries.
The "Patriot Way" included:
- A very critical and focused approach.
- Emphasizing the team, treating all players equally, and avoiding individual show-offs.
- Strong work ethic, intelligence, and high focus for every game.
- Players who could play multiple positions.
- Using different strategies to find and use opponents' weaknesses.
Championships and Achievements
Super Bowl Championships
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The New England Patriots have won six Super Bowls. This is the NFL's championship game. They are tied with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the most Super Bowl wins ever. The team won back-to-back championships in 2003 and 2004. They are one of only eight NFL teams to do this. Between 2001 and 2004, the Patriots became the second team in NFL history to win three Super Bowls in four years.
| Year | Coach | Super Bowl | Location | Opponent | Score | Record |
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| 2001 | Bill Belichick | XXXVI | Louisiana Superdome (New Orleans) | St. Louis Rams | 20–17 | 11–5 |
| 2003 | XXXVIII | Reliant Stadium (Houston) | Carolina Panthers | 32–29 | 14–2 | |
| 2004 | XXXIX | Alltel Stadium (Jacksonville) | Philadelphia Eagles | 24–21 | 14–2 | |
| 2014 | XLIX | University of Phoenix Stadium (Glendale) | Seattle Seahawks | 28–24 | 12–4 | |
| 2016 | LI | NRG Stadium (Houston) | Atlanta Falcons | 34–28 (OT) | 14–2 | |
| 2018 | LIII | Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta) | Los Angeles Rams | 13–3 | 11–5 | |
| Total Super Bowls won: | 6 | |||||
AFC Championships
The Patriots have won eleven AFC Championships. This is the most conference championships in NFL history.
| Year | Coach | Location | Opponent | Score | Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Raymond Berry | Miami Orange Bowl (Miami) | Miami Dolphins | 31–14 | 11–5 |
| 1996 | Bill Parcells | Foxboro Stadium (Foxborough) | Jacksonville Jaguars | 20–6 | 11–5 |
| 2001 | Bill Belichick | Heinz Field (Pittsburgh) | Pittsburgh Steelers | 24–17 | 11–5 |
| 2003 | Gillette Stadium (Foxborough) | Indianapolis Colts | 23–20 | 14–2 | |
| 2004 | Heinz Field (Pittsburgh) | Pittsburgh Steelers | 41–27 | 14–2 | |
| 2007 | Gillette Stadium (Foxborough) | San Diego Chargers | 21–12 | 16–0 | |
| 2011 | Baltimore Ravens | 23–20 | 13–3 | ||
| 2014 | Indianapolis Colts | 45–7 | 12–4 | ||
| 2016 | Pittsburgh Steelers | 36–17 | 14–2 | ||
| 2017 | Jacksonville Jaguars | 24–20 | 13–3 | ||
| 2018 | Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City) | Kansas City Chiefs | 37–31 (OT) | 11–5 | |
| Total AFC Championships won: | 11 | ||||
Division Championships
The Patriots have won 22 Division Championships. This is the second-most all-time, behind the Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys. One title was in the AFL East (1963). The rest were in the AFC East of the NFL.
| Year | Coach | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Mike Holovak | 7–6–1 |
| 1978 | Chuck Fairbanks | 11–5 |
| 1986 | Raymond Berry | 11–5 |
| 1996 | Bill Parcells | 11–5 |
| 1997 | Pete Carroll | 10–6 |
| 2001 | Bill Belichick | 11–5 |
| 2003 | 14–2 | |
| 2004 | 14–2 | |
| 2005 | 10–6 | |
| 2006 | 12–4 | |
| 2007 | 16–0 | |
| 2009 | 10–6 | |
| 2010 | 14–2 | |
| 2011 | 13–3 | |
| 2012 | 12–4 | |
| 2013 | 12–4 | |
| 2014 | 12–4 | |
| 2015 | 12–4 | |
| 2016 | 14–2 | |
| 2017 | 13–3 | |
| 2018 | 11–5 | |
| 2019 | 12–4 | |
| Total Division Championships won: | 22 | |
Team Statistics and Records
Recent Season Results
Here are the Patriots' results for their last five completed seasons.
Note: The Finish, Wins, Losses, and Ties columns show regular season results only.
| Super Bowl champions | Conference champions | Division champions | Wild Card berth |
As of January 7, 2024[update]
| Season | Team | League | Conference | Division | Regular season | Postseason results | Awards | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Wins | Losses | Ties | |||||||
| 2020 | 2020 | NFL | AFC | East | 3rd | 7 | 9 | 0 | — | — |
| 2021 | 2021 | NFL | AFC | East | 2nd | 10 | 7 | 0 | Lost Wild Card Playoffs (Bills) 47–17 | — |
| 2022 | 2022 | NFL | AFC | East | 3rd | 8 | 9 | 0 | — | — |
| 2023 | 2023 | NFL | AFC | East | 4th | 4 | 13 | 0 | — | — |
| 2024 | 2024 | NFL | AFC | East | 4th | 4 | 13 | 0 | — | — |
| Reference: | ||||||||||
All-Time Leaders
| All-time Patriots leaders | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Leader | Name | Record number | Tenure |
| Passing | Tom Brady | 74,571 passing yards | 2000–2019 |
| Rushing | Sam Cunningham | 5,453 rushing yards | 1973–1982 |
| Receiving | Stanley Morgan | 10,352 receiving yards | 1977–1989 |
| Scoring | Stephen Gostkowski | 1,775 points | 2006–2019 |
| Sacks | Andre Tippett | 100.0 sacks | 1982–1993 |
| Interceptions | Raymond Clayborn | 36 interceptions | 1977–1989 |
| Ty Law | 1995–2004 | ||
| Coaching wins | Bill Belichick | 266 wins | 2000–2023 |
Individual Awards
The following Patriots players and staff have won major league awards.
Bold means they are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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Players of Note
Pro Football Hall of Famers
The Pro Football Hall of Fame has honored many players who played for the Patriots. Six players made their biggest impact while with the Patriots. In total, 12 people connected to the Patriots are in the Hall of Fame (11 players and 1 coach).
Notes:
- Hall of Famers who played a major part of their career with the Patriots are in bold.
- Hall of Famers who spent only a small part of their career with the Patriots are in normal text.
| New England Patriots in the Pro Football Hall of Fame | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Players | ||||
| No. | Name | Inducted | Position(s) | Tenure |
| 85 | Nick Buoniconti | 2001 | LB | 1962–1968 |
| 73 | John Hannah | 1991 | G | 1973–1985 |
| 40 | Mike Haynes | 1997 | CB | 1976–1982 |
| 24 | Ty Law | 2019 | CB | 1995–2004 |
| 28 | Curtis Martin | 2012 | RB | 1995–1997 |
| 66 | Steve McMichael | 2024 | DT | 1980 |
| 81 | Randy Moss | 2018 | WR | 2007–2010 |
| 24 | Darrelle Revis | 2023 | CB | 2014 |
| 55 | Junior Seau | 2015 | LB | 2006–2009 |
| 93 | Richard Seymour | 2022 | DE | 2001–2008 |
| 56 | Andre Tippett | 2008 | LB | 1982–1993 |
| Coaches and Contributors | ||||
| Name | Inducted | Position(s) | Tenure | |
| Bill Parcells | 2013 | Head coach | 1993–1996 | |
Retired Numbers
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The Patriots have officially retired eight uniform numbers. Three of these numbers belong to players from the original AFL era. Andre Tippett's number 56 is unofficially retired. It has not been given to another player since he retired in 1993.
| Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame |
| New England Patriots retired numbers | ||||
| No. | Player | Position | Tenure | Retired |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Tom Brady | QB | 2000–2019 | June 12, 2024 |
| 20 | Gino Cappelletti | FL/K | 1960–1970 | 1971 |
| 40 | Mike Haynes | CB | 1976–1982 | 1996 |
| 57 | Steve Nelson | LB | 1974–1987 | July 11, 1988 |
| 73 | John Hannah | G | 1973–1985 | 1990 |
| 78 | Bruce Armstrong | T | 1987–2000 | September 30, 2001 |
| 79 | Jim Lee Hunt | DT | 1960–1970 | 1971 |
| 89 | Bob Dee | DE | 1960–1967 | 1968 |
Patriots Hall of Fame
The Patriots have their own Hall of Fame. It honors important people in the team's history. It was started in 1991, with John Hannah as the first member. The physical Hall of Fame building opened in 2008 at Patriot Place. It has many items like game-worn gear, trophies, and interactive exhibits.
Fans can vote for players to be inducted. Players and head coaches must be retired for at least four years to be eligible. Since 2009, owner Robert Kraft has also inducted "contributors" like assistant coaches and broadcasters. The team's founder, Billy Sullivan, was inducted in 2009.
| Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame |
| Patriots Hall of Fame | ||||
| No. | Name | Position | Years with club | Inducted |
| 65 | Houston Antwine~† | DL | 1961–1971 | 2015 |
| 78 | Bruce Armstrong | T | 1987–2000 | 2001 |
| 11 | Drew Bledsoe | QB | 1993–2001 | 2011 |
| 12 | Tom Brady | QB | 2000–2019 | 2024 |
| 80 | Troy Brown | WR KR/PR Coach |
1993–2007 2020–2024 |
2012 |
| 54 | Tedy Bruschi | LB | 1996–2008 | 2013 |
| 85 | Nick Buoniconti | LB | 1962–1968 | 1992 |
| 20 | Gino Cappelletti | FL/K Broadcaster |
1960–1970 1972–1978, 1988–2012 |
1992 |
| 26 | Raymond Clayborn | CB | 1977–1989 | 2017 |
| 87 | Ben Coates | TE | 1991–1999 | 2008 |
| 39 | Sam Cunningham | RB | 1973–1982 | 2010 |
| 89 | Bob Dee† | DL | 1960–1967 | 1993 |
| 11 | Julian Edelman | WR | 2009–2020 | 2025 |
| 33 | Kevin Faulk | RB | 1999–2011 | 2016 |
| 70 | Leon Gray~† | T | 1973–1978 | 2019 |
| 14 | Steve Grogan | QB | 1975–1990 | 1995 |
| 73 | John Hannah | G | 1973–1985 | 1991 |
| 37 | Rodney Harrison | S | 2003–2008 | 2019 |
| 40 | Mike Haynes | CB | 1976–1982 | 1994 |
| 79 | Jim Lee Hunt† | DT | 1960–1971 | 1993 |
| 24 | Ty Law | CB | 1995–2004 | 2014 |
| 72 | Matt Light | T | 2001–2011 | 2018 |
| 55 | Willie McGinest | LB/DE | 1994–2005 | 2015 |
| 86 | Stanley Morgan | WR | 1977–1989 | 2007 |
| 56 | Jon Morris~ | C | 1964–1974 | 2011 |
| 35 | Jim Nance† | FB | 1965–1971 | 2009 |
| 57 | Steve Nelson | LB | 1974–1987 | 1993 |
| 15 | Vito "Babe" Parilli | QB | 1961–1967 | 1993 |
| — | Bill Parcells* | Linebackers Coach Head Coach |
1980 1993–1996 |
2025 |
| — | Gil Santos* | Broadcaster | 1972–1979 1991–2012 |
2013 |
| — | Dante Scarnecchia* | Assistant Coach | 1982–1988 1991–2013 2016–2019 |
2023 |
| 93 | Richard Seymour | DL | 2001–2008 | 2020 |
| — | Tracy Sormanti*† | Cheerleading Director | 1983–2020 | 2021 |
| — | Billy Sullivan*† | Founder/Owner | 1960–1988 | 2009 |
| 56 | Andre Tippett | LB Executive Director of Community Affairs |
1982–1993 2007–present |
1999 |
| 50 | Mike Vrabel | LB Head coach |
2001–2008 2025–present |
2023 |
| 75 | Vince Wilfork | DL | 2004–2014 | 2022 |
| Reference: | ||||
Notes:
- * = Inducted as a contributor
- ~ = Inducted as a senior selection
- † = Posthumous induction
Pro Bowl Selections
The following Patriots players have been chosen for the Pro Bowl (or the AFL All-Star game before 1970):
- QB Tom Brady (14), Drew Bledsoe, Vito "Babe" Parilli (3) (AFL), Drake Maye, Mac Jones, Mike Taliaferro
- FB Larry Garron (4) (AFL), Jim Nance (2) (AFL), Sam Cunningham, James Develin
- HB Curtis Martin (2), Tony Collins, Corey Dillon, John Stephens, Craig James, Carl Garrett (AFL)
- LT Bruce Armstrong (6), Matt Light, Brian Holloway (3), Leon Gray (2), Don Oakes (AFL)
- LG John Hannah (9), Logan Mankins (6), Charley Long (2) (AFL), Charley Leo (AFL)
- C Jon Morris (7) (AFL), Damien Woody, Dan Koppen
- RG Billy Neighbors (AFL), Len St. Jean (AFL), Brian Waters
- RT Tom Neville (AFL), Dick Klein (AFL)
- TE Rob Gronkowski, Ben Coates (5), Russ Francis (3), Marv Cook (2)
- WR Wes Welker, Gino Cappelletti (5) (AFL), Stanley Morgan (4), Randy Moss, Troy Brown, Terry Glenn, Irving Fryar, Ron Sellers (AFL), Jim Colclough (AFL)
- DE Richard Seymour (5), Bob Dee (4) (AFL), Larry Eisenhauer (4) (AFL), Julius Adams, Andre Carter, Chandler Jones
- DT Houston Antwine (6) (AFL), Vince Wilfork (5), Jim Lee Hunt (4) (AFL)
- LB Andre Tippett, Nick Buoniconti (5) (AFL), Tom Addison (4) (AFL), Steve Nelson (3), Johnny Rembert, Willie McGinest, Jerod Mayo, Dont'a Hightower, Matthew Judon (2), Chris Slade, Tedy Bruschi, Mike Vrabel, Jamie Collins
- CB Mike Haynes (6), Ty Law (4), Stephon Gilmore (3), Dick Felt (AFL), Chuck Shonta (AFL), Leroy Mitchell (AFL), Asante Samuel, Devin McCourty, Aqib Talib, Darrelle Revis, Malcolm Butler, J. C. Jackson
- SS Lawyer Milloy (4), Fred Bruney (2) (AFL), Ron Hall (AFL)
- FS Brandon Meriweather (2), Don Webb (AFL), Fred Marion, Devin McCourty
- PK Stephen Gostkowski (4), Adam Vinatieri (2), John Smith, Tony Franklin
- P Rich Camarillo, Jake Bailey
- ST Matthew Slater (10), Raymond Clayborn (3), Larry Izzo (2), Mosi Tatupu, Dave Meggett, Brenden Schooler
First-Team All-Pro Selections
The following Patriots players have been named AP first-team All-Pro (or All-AFL before 1970):
- QB Tom Brady (3), Vito "Babe" Parilli (AFL)
- FB Jim Nance (AFL) (2)
- LT Leon Gray (3), Matt Light
- LG John Hannah (7), Logan Mankins
- C Jon Morris (AFL)
- RG Billy Neighbors (AFL)
- TE Rob Gronkowski (4), Ben Coates (2), Marv Cook, Jim Whalen (AFL)
- WR Wes Welker (2), Randy Moss
- DE Richard Seymour, Larry Eisenhauer (AFL) (3)
- DT Houston Antwine (AFL), Vince Wilfork
- LB Nick Buoniconti (4) (AFL), Andre Tippett (2), Tom Addison (AFL), Mike Vrabel, Jerod Mayo
- CB Ty Law, Stephon Gilmore (2), Asante Samuel, Darrelle Revis
- SS Ron Hall (AFL), Lawyer Milloy, Rodney Harrison
- PK Adam Vinatieri, Stephen Gostkowski (2)
- P Jake Bailey
- ST Matthew Slater (2), Gunner Olszewski, Marcus Jones, Brenden Schooler
Team Administration and Personnel
Team Ownership
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The Patriots have had four owners. The first was Billy Sullivan from 1959 to 1988. He led the team to some winning seasons and playoff appearances. After Sullivan, Victor Kiam owned the team from 1988 to 1992. Then, James Orthwein owned the team from 1992 to 1994. Orthwein planned to move the team to St. Louis. However, Robert Kraft, who owned the stadium, stopped the move. Kraft then bought the team in 1994 for $175 million.
Kraft was a lifelong fan of the Patriots. He has owned the team since 1994. Under his ownership, the Patriots have been the most successful NFL team. They have appeared in ten Super Bowls and won six. They have also set many league records.
| Name | Tenure | Record | Titles | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | T | |||
| Billy Sullivan | 1960–1987 | 193 | 202 | 9 | |
| Victor Kiam | 1988–1991 | 21 | 43 | 0 | |
| James Orthwein | 1992–1993 | 7 | 25 | 0 | |
| Robert Kraft | 1994–present | 324 | 176 | 0 | 6 |
Head Coaches
The Patriots have had 16 head coaches. On January 12, 2025, the Patriots hired Mike Vrabel as their 16th head coach. He is the second coach in team history to have also played for the team.
Bill Belichick was the head coach for 23 seasons, from 2000 to 2023. He is considered one of the greatest coaches of all time. He led the Patriots to 17 division titles, 13 AFC Championship Game appearances, and nine Super Bowl appearances. He won a record six Super Bowls. Belichick holds the NFL record for most playoff coaching wins (31). He is third in regular season coaching wins (297). He is one of only three head coaches to win six NFL titles. He was named NFL Coach of the Year three times.
Belichick was acquired in a "trade" with the New York Jets. He did not want to work under Bill Parcells there. The Patriots gave the Jets their first-round pick in the 2000 NFL draft for Belichick. In that same draft, the Patriots famously picked Tom Brady in the sixth round.
Before Belichick, coaches like Mike Holovak, Raymond Berry, and Bill Parcells also led the Patriots to championship games. Five Patriots head coaches have been named Coach of the Year. The first head coach in team history was Lou Saban in 1960.
| Name | Tenure | Record | Titles | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | T | |||
| Lou Saban | 1960–1961 | 7 | 12 | 0 | |
| Mike Holovak | 1961–1968 | 52 | 49 | 9 | |
| Clive Rush | 1969–1970 | 5 | 16 | 0 | |
| John Mazur | 1971–1972 | 9 | 21 | 0 | |
| Phil Bengtson* | 1972 | 1 | 4 | 0 | |
| Chuck Fairbanks | 1973–1978 | 46 | 39 | 0 | |
| Ron Erhardt | 1979–1981 | 21 | 28 | 0 | |
| Ron Meyer | 1982–1984 | 18 | 15 | 0 | |
| Raymond Berry | 1984–1989 | 48 | 39 | 0 | |
| Rod Rust | 1990 | 1 | 15 | 0 | |
| Dick MacPherson | 1991–1992 | 8 | 24 | 0 | |
| Bill Parcells | 1993–1996 | 32 | 32 | 0 | |
| Pete Carroll | 1997–1999 | 27 | 21 | 0 | |
| Bill Belichick | 2000–2023 | 266 | 121 | 0 | 6 |
| Jerod Mayo | 2024 | 4 | 13 | 0 | |
| Mike Vrabel | 2025–present | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Note:
- * = Interim coach
Team Culture
Cheerleaders
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The Patriots have a professional cheerleading squad called the New England Patriots Cheerleaders. They represent the team in the NFL. Famous former cheerleaders include wrestler Carmella and model Camille Kostek.
Mascots
The Patriots' official mascot since 1995 is Pat Patriot. He is a revolutionary minuteman wearing a Patriots jersey. He is based on the team's original logo.
The Patriots also have the End Zone Militia. This group of American Revolutionary War reenactors was started in 1996. About 20 men and women dress up for each home game. They stand behind the end zones. When the Patriots score, the militia behind the opposite end zone fires blank shots from flintlock muskets. These shots use a lot of black powder to be heard throughout the stadium. This celebration is considered one of the best in the league.
Fans
The team has many fans from the New England region of the United States. They also have fans from the Canadian province of Quebec and much of Atlantic Canada.
Radio and Television Coverage
The Patriots' main radio station is WBZ-FM (98.5 FM). Their larger radio network, the New England Patriots Radio Network, has 37 stations across seven states. Gil Santos and Gino Cappelletti were the longtime announcers until 2012. Bob Socci replaced Santos. Former Patriots QB Scott Zolak joined the radio team in 2011. In 2013, he replaced Cappelletti as the color commentator.
Preseason games not on national TV are shown on CBS's O&O WBZ-TV. WBZ-TV also airs most regular-season Patriots games because CBS has the rights to most AFC games. When the Patriots host an NFC team, the games are shown on Fox affiliate WFXT-TV. NBC Sunday Night Football games are on Boston NBC station WBTS-CD.
More to Explore
- Active NFL playoff appearance streaks
- Forbes list of the most valuable sports teams
- List of National Football League records (team)
- List of Super Bowl records
- Sports in Massachusetts
- Sports in Boston
See also
In Spanish: New England Patriots para niños
