New England Patriots facts for kids

Quick facts for kids New England Patriots
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Basic info
Established	November 16, 1959; 65 years ago (November 16, 1959)
Colors	Nautical blue, red, new century silver, white
Fight song	"I'm Shipping Up to Boston"
Mascot	Pat Patriot
Personnel
Owner(s)	Robert Kraft
CEO	Robert Kraft
President	Jonathan Kraft
General manager	Eliot Wolf
Head coach	Jerod Mayo
Nicknames
The Pats The Evil Empire The Boston TE Party (tight ends; 2010–2012) The Boogeymen (Linebackers; 2019)
Team history
Boston Patriots (1960–1970) New England Patriots (1971–present)
Home fields
Boston University Field (1960–1962) Fenway Park (1963–1968) Alumni Stadium (1969) Harvard Stadium (1970) Foxboro Stadium (1971–2001) Gillette Stadium (2002–present)
League / conference affiliations
American Football League (1960–1969) Eastern Division (1960–1969) National Football League (1970–present) American Football Conference (1970–present) AFC East (1970–present)
Championships
League championships: 6 Super Bowl championships: 6 2001 (XXXVI), 2003 (XXXVIII), 2004 (XXXIX), 2014 (XLIX), 2016 (LI), 2018 (LIII)
Conference championships: 11 AFC: 1985, 1996, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2011, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
Division championships: 22 AFL East: 1963 AFC East: 1978, 1986, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
Playoff appearances (28)
AFL: 1963 NFL: 1976, 1978, 1982, 1985, 1986, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021
Owner(s)
Billy Sullivan (1959–1988) Victor Kiam (1988–1992) James Orthwein (1992–1994) Robert Kraft (1994–present)

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.

The team plays its home games 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 2023, the Patriots are one of the most valuable sports teams in the world. They have sold out every home game since 1994.

The Patriots 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 team played in different stadiums in Boston. These 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. Then, Gillette Stadium opened, becoming their new home.

The Patriots hold many NFL records. They are tied for the most Super Bowl wins (6) with the Pittsburgh Steelers. They also have the most Super Bowl appearances (11). From 2001 to 2019, the team was very successful. This was under head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. This time is known as the Brady–Belichick era. It is one of the greatest sports dynasties. The Patriots set many records during this period. These include most wins in a 10-year period (126). They also had the longest winning streak (21 games). They had the most consecutive winning seasons (19). They are the only team to have an undefeated 16-game regular season (2007).

Team History: How the Patriots Started and Grew

Early Days: From Boston to New England

On November 16, 1959, Boston businessman Billy Sullivan started the eighth and final team of the new American Football League (AFL). People in Boston helped choose the team's name. The most popular choice was the "Boston Patriots." This name honored the colonists who fought for American independence. Massachusetts was very important 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 in several places 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. They beat Buffalo to win their division. But they lost the AFL championship game to the San Diego Chargers 51–10. They did not reach the playoffs again for 13 years.

When the NFL and AFL merged in 1970, the Patriots joined the American Football Conference (AFC) East division. They still play there today. In 1971, the Patriots moved to a new stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This stadium was their home for 30 years. Because of the move, they changed their name. They went from the Boston Patriots to the New England Patriots.

Ups and Downs: The 1970s, 80s, and 90s

In the 1970s, the Patriots had some good seasons. Coach Chuck Fairbanks led them to the playoffs in 1976 and 1978. But they lost in the first round both times. Under coach Raymond Berry, the team reached their first AFC Championship in 1985. They made it to Super Bowl XX, but lost to the Chicago Bears 46–10.

The team changed owners several times in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Billy Sullivan sold the team to Victor Kiam in 1988. Kiam then sold it to James Orthwein in 1992. Orthwein wanted to move the team to St. Louis. But Robert Kraft, a Boston businessman, owned Foxboro Stadium. Kraft bought the team in 1994 for $175 million. He kept the team in New England.

Under Kraft's ownership, Bill Parcells became head coach in 1993. He led the Patriots to two playoff appearances. This included Super Bowl XXXI after the 1996 season. They lost to the Green Bay Packers 35–21. Pete Carroll took over as coach and led the team to the playoffs twice more.

A New Era: The Brady-Belichick Dynasty

In 2000, the Patriots hired Bill Belichick as head coach. Their new home, Gillette Stadium, opened in 2002. In the 2001 season, starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe got hurt. Backup quarterback Tom Brady, who was a sixth-round draft pick, took over. Brady played so well that he became the permanent starter. He was the team's quarterback for the next 18 years.

Under Belichick and Brady, the Patriots became one of the NFL's most dominant teams. Many people called them 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 the 2007 season, the Patriots had a perfect 16–0 regular season. They were the only team to do this in a 16-game season. They reached Super Bowl XLII, but were upset by the Giants. This ended their perfect season at 18–1. In 2008, Brady got hurt, and the team missed the playoffs.

The Patriots returned to the Super Bowl in 2011. They lost again to the Giants. In 2014, the Patriots reached their eighth Super Bowl. They beat the Seattle Seahawks 28–24 in Super Bowl XLIX. Rookie cornerback Malcolm Butler made a game-winning interception.

In the 2016–17 playoffs, the Patriots played the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. They were losing 28–3 in the third quarter. But the Patriots made an amazing comeback. They scored 25 points to tie the game. In the first overtime in Super Bowl history, the Patriots won. They scored a touchdown to claim their fifth Super Bowl victory.

The Patriots made it to their tenth Super Bowl in the 2017–18 playoffs. But they lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII. They returned for a third straight Super Bowl in Super Bowl LIII. They beat the Los Angeles Rams 13–3. This was their sixth Super Bowl win, tying the record with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

After the 2019 season, Tom Brady left the Patriots. He had been with the team for 20 seasons. The team signed Cam Newton to replace him. In 2020, the Patriots had their first losing record in two decades (7–9). In the 2021 NFL draft, the team drafted Mac Jones. Jones became the starting quarterback. He led the team back to the playoffs in 2021. But they lost to the Buffalo Bills. The Patriots finished with a losing record in 2022 and 2023.

After the 2023 season, Bill Belichick and the Patriots decided to part ways. This was after 24 years. The team then promoted Jerod Mayo to head coach. Eliot Wolf became the general manager. In the 2024 NFL draft, the Patriots picked Drake Maye third overall. This was their highest draft pick in 31 years.

Logos and Uniforms: The Look of the Patriots

Primary Logos: From Pat Patriot to Flying Elvis

• 

  The Patriots' first main logo (1961–1992), called "Pat Patriot". It is now a secondary logo.
• 

  The Patriots' main logo since 1993, known as the "Flying Elvis". The blue color was made darker in 2000.

The Patriots' first helmet logo in 1960 was a simple three-cornered hat. From 1961 to 1992, they used a logo of a Revolutionary War minuteman holding a football. This became known as the "Pat Patriot" logo. It is also the name of the team's mascot.

In 1993, the team introduced a new logo. It showed the gray face of a minuteman with a red, white, and blue hat. This hat looked like a flowing banner. People started calling it the "Flying Elvis" because it looked like a young Elvis Presley. In 2000, the blue color in the logo was changed to a darker "nautical blue."

In 2013, the Patriots updated their wordmark logo. It now uses modern block letters. The "Flying Elvis" logo is often placed underneath the letters.

Uniforms: Changes Through the Years

1960–1992: Red, White, and Blue Classics

The Patriots' uniforms stayed mostly the same from 1960 to 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. The helmets were white with the "Pat Patriot" logo. Blue stripes were added to the helmet in 1964. Sometimes, they wore red pants with their white jerseys.

1993–1999: The Flying Elvis Era

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 numbers on the jerseys were red with blue and white outlines. After one season, the home jerseys switched to white numbers with a red outline. In 1995, the numbers changed to a more modern, rounded font.

2000–2019: The Dynasty Look

In 2000, the Patriots changed their numbers back to block style. The blue color was changed to a darker "nautical blue." The numbers were put back on the shoulders, and the logo moved to the sleeves. Silver stripes were added to the home jersey, and blue stripes to the away jersey. The team also started wearing blue pants with their white away jerseys. This gave a better contrast.

The Patriots sometimes wore all-blue uniforms in 2002. They lost both games when they did this. They did not wear all-blue again until 2016. In 2011, the team wore "MHK" patches on their uniforms. This was to honor Myra Kraft, the owner's late wife.

2020–Present: A Fresh Start

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. Both uniforms have shorter shoulder stripes. This is a nod to the old "Pat Patriot" uniforms. These new jerseys came out when Tom Brady left the team.

In 2022, the Patriots brought back silver pants to wear with their current uniforms. These new silver pants have thicker red stripes. In 2024, they wore their silver pants with the road white uniform for the first time since 1999.

Alternate Uniforms: Different Styles

In 1994, the Patriots wore their old "Pat Patriot" helmets and striped white pants. This was for the NFL's 75th anniversary. In 2002, they brought back a red jersey as an alternate. It came with the old "Pat Patriot" helmet. In 2003, they changed their alternate to a silver jersey with blue pants. They used the "Flying Elvis" helmet with this. These silver uniforms were used until 2007.

The red alternate uniform returned in 2009. It was again worn with the "Pat Patriot" helmet. In 2013, the NFL made a rule against using different helmets. So, the Patriots stopped wearing their red throwback uniforms. However, the NFL changed this rule in 2022. The Patriots then brought back their red throwback uniforms.

In 2016, the Patriots wore all-navy "Color Rush" uniforms. They have worn them four times since then. In 2017, an all-white Color Rush uniform was introduced.

Facilities: Where the Patriots Play and Train

Stadium and Headquarters: Gillette Stadium

Since 2002, the Patriots' home stadium has been Gillette Stadium. Robert Kraft paid $350 million to build it. It is in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The stadium also has the team's practice fields and offices. The field was originally grass. It was changed to FieldTurf in 2006. In 2023, the Patriots installed the largest video board in the United States.

The area around the stadium is called Patriot Place. It is a large shopping and entertainment center. It opened in 2007.

Before 2002, the Patriots played at Foxboro Stadium. This stadium was their home from 1971 to 2001. The last game there was a playoff win in 2002. It was known for a snowstorm and the "tuck rule" call. Before Foxboro Stadium, the Boston Patriots played in several fields around Boston.

Stadium History: Where the Team Has Played

Stadium	Location	Duration
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: Getting Ready to Play

The Patriots hold their training camp and practices right outside Gillette Stadium. They have two practice fields there.

Before 2003, the Patriots trained in different places. From 1976 to 2002, they held training camp at Bryant College in Rhode Island. They also trained at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Phillips Academy.

Team Aircraft: AirKrafts

In 2017, the Patriots bought two Boeing 767-300ER planes. These planes are used for team travel. This made them the first NFL team to own their own planes. The planes are called "AirKrafts" after team owner Robert Kraft. Kraft has even lent one of the planes for special trips, like taking students to a demonstration in Washington, D.C.

Rivalries: Who the Patriots Love to Compete Against

The Patriots have played most often against other teams in their 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. The Patriots also had a memorable rivalry with the New York Giants.

Divisional Rivals: AFC East Battles

New York Jets: A Close and Intense Rivalry

The rivalry with the New York Jets is the closest geographically. Both teams started in 1960. They have played each other at least twice a year since then. This rivalry became more intense in 1996. That's when Patriots head coach Bill Parcells left to coach the Jets. Later, in 2000, Parcells' assistant, Bill Belichick, resigned from the Jets to become the Patriots' head coach.

Bill Belichick earned his 200th coaching win against the Jets in 2012. He also passed George Halas for second most coaching wins in 2022, also against the Jets. As of 2023, the Patriots lead the all-time series against the Jets.

Buffalo Bills: A History of Dominance

The Patriots and Bills were both founding members of the AFL. They have been division rivals since the AFL–NFL merger. Before Tom Brady, the rivalry was friendly. But Brady dominated the Bills during his time as Patriots quarterback. He had a 32–3 regular-season record against them.

After Brady left in 2019, the Bills beat the Patriots twice in 2020. This included a big 38–9 win. 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. The Bills scored seven touchdowns in a row. As of 2023, the Patriots lead the all-time series against the Bills.

Miami Dolphins: Sunshine State Showdowns

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 to have undefeated regular seasons in the Super Bowl era. Miami went 14–0 in 1972. The Patriots went 16–0 in 2007. Famous moments include the Snowplow Game and the Miracle in Miami. As of 2023, the Dolphins lead the all-time series against the Patriots.

Conference Rivals: Big Games in the AFC

Indianapolis Colts: Quarterback Battles

The Patriots' rivalry with the Indianapolis Colts was strong when they were both in the AFC East (1970–2001). They played many close games. Even after the Colts moved divisions in 2002, the rivalry continued. Both teams were top teams in the AFC. They were led by famous 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. The Patriots won the AFC Championship game against the Colts in 2015. As of the 2023 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series against the Colts.

Baltimore Ravens: Tough Playoff Matchups

The Ravens and Patriots rivalry became strong in 2007. The Ravens lost a close game to the Patriots that year. The rivalry grew more intense in the playoffs. The Ravens beat the Patriots in the 2009 AFC Wild Card game. This was their first win against the Patriots.

They met again in the 2011 AFC Championship Game. The Ravens lost a very close game 23–20. The Ravens had a chance to win with a field goal, but it was missed. The Ravens got their first regular-season win over the Patriots in 2012. They met again in the 2013 AFC Championship, where the Ravens won 28–13. The Patriots won a playoff game against the Ravens in 2015, coming back from a 14-point deficit twice. As of the 2023 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series against the Ravens.

Denver Broncos: High-Altitude Showdowns

The Broncos and Patriots have played each other since the AFL days (1960). They played in the first-ever AFL game. They have met five times in the playoffs. The Broncos have won four of those games. The rivalry became even stronger when Peyton Manning became the Broncos' quarterback in 2012. Manning and Tom Brady had a legendary rivalry. Brady won most regular-season games. But Manning won three of their five playoff meetings. As of the 2023 season, the Broncos lead the all-time series against the Patriots.

Pittsburgh Steelers: AFC Powerhouses

The Pittsburgh Steelers became a big rival when the Patriots upset them in the 2001 AFC Championship Game. The Patriots also beat the Steelers in 2002. The Steelers ended the Patriots' 21-game winning streak in 2004. But the Patriots then beat the Steelers in the AFC Championship that season.

The Patriots have won six of their last seven games against the Steelers over a ten-year period. In the Bill Belichick era, the Patriots have a 12–4 record against the Steelers. In the playoffs, the Patriots have a 4–1 record against the Steelers. As of the 2023 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series against the Steelers.

Las Vegas Raiders: Historic Moments

The rivalry between the Patriots and the Raiders goes back to the AFL. A famous moment was the "Tuck Rule Game" in the 2002 playoffs. A play by Tom Brady was first called a fumble, then changed to an incomplete pass. The Patriots won in overtime and went on to win the Super Bowl. Since that game, the Patriots have won most of the regular-season games. As of the 2023 season, the Patriots lead the all-time series against the Raiders.

Inter-Conference Rivals: Super Bowl Rematches

New York Giants: Super Bowl Heartbreak

The Patriots and New York Giants rarely played because they are in different conferences. But their rivalry became famous in the late 2000s. This was due to close games between Tom Brady and Eli Manning. In 2007, the Patriots beat the Giants to finish a perfect 16–0 regular season. But the Giants upset the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII, ending their perfect season. The Giants also beat the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI. As of the 2023 season, the series is tied.

Strategy and Influence: The "Patriot Way"

Under head coach Bill Belichick, the Patriots used special strategies. On the field, they often used a "two-gap 3–4 defensive system." This system was developed in New England in the 1970s.

Since 2000, the team's philosophy has focused on the "team" concept. This means everyone works together. They emphasize being prepared, working hard, being able to play many positions, and not having a big ego. This approach helped them win six Super Bowls. It is often called the "Patriot Way."

The "Patriot Way" includes:

• Being self-critical and always trying to be perfect.
• Focusing on the team, with all players being equal.
• Having a strong work ethic and high focus for every game.
• Having versatile players who can play different positions.
• Using different strategies to find and use opponents' weaknesses.

Championships: Winning Big Games

Super Bowl Championships: The Ultimate Wins

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 to win three Super Bowls in four years.

Year	Coach	Super Bowl	Location	Opponent	Score	Record
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: Winning the Conference

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: Winning the AFC East

The Patriots have won 22 Division Championships. This is the second most all-time. 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

Statistics, Records, and Awards: Top Patriots Players

Season-by-Season Results: How the Patriots Have Done Each Year

Here are the Patriots' results for their last five seasons.

Note: The Finish, Wins, Losses, and Ties columns show regular season results only. They do not include playoff games.

Super Bowl champions

Conference champions

Division champions

Wild Card berth

As of January 7,  2024 (2024 -01-07)^[update]

Season	Team	League	Conference	Division	Regular season				Postseason results	Awards
					Finish	Wins	Losses	Ties
2019	2019	NFL	AFC	East	1st	12	4	0	Lost Wild Card Playoffs (Titans) 20–13	Stephon Gilmore (DPOY)
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	—	—

Playoff Record: Their Performance in the Postseason

Year	Game	Opponent	Result
1963	Divisional Round	Buffalo Bills	W 26–8
	AFL Championship	San Diego Chargers	L 51–10
1976	Divisional Round	Oakland Raiders	L 24–21
1978	Divisional Round	Houston Oilers	L 31–14
1982	AFC Wild Card	Miami Dolphins	L 31–14
1985	AFC Wild Card	New York Jets	W 26–14
	Divisional Round	Los Angeles Raiders	W 27–14
	AFC Championship	Miami Dolphins	W 31–14
	Super Bowl XX	Chicago Bears	L 46–10
1986	Divisional Round	Denver Broncos	L 22–17
1994	AFC Wild Card	Cleveland Browns	L 20–13
1996	Divisional Round	Pittsburgh Steelers	W 28–3
	AFC Championship	Jacksonville Jaguars	W 20–6
	Super Bowl XXXI	Green Bay Packers	L 35–21
1997	AFC Wild Card	Miami Dolphins	W 17–13
	Divisional Round	Pittsburgh Steelers	L 7–6
1998	AFC Wild Card	Jacksonville Jaguars	L 25–10
2001	Divisional Round	Oakland Raiders	W 16–13
	AFC Championship	Pittsburgh Steelers	W 24–17
	Super Bowl XXXVI	St. Louis Rams	W 20–17
2003	Divisional Round	Tennessee Titans	W 17–14
	AFC Championship	Indianapolis Colts	W 24–14
	Super Bowl XXXVIII	Carolina Panthers	W 32–29
2004	Divisional Round	Indianapolis Colts	W 20–3
	AFC Championship	Pittsburgh Steelers	W 41–27
	Super Bowl XXXIX	Philadelphia Eagles	W 24–21
2005	AFC Wild Card	Jacksonville Jaguars	W 28–3
	Divisional Round	Denver Broncos	L 27–13
2006	AFC Wild Card	New York Jets	W 37–16
	Divisional Round	San Diego Chargers	W 24–21
	AFC Championship	Indianapolis Colts	L 38–34
2007	Divisional Round	Jacksonville Jaguars	W 31–20
	AFC Championship	San Diego Chargers	W 21–12
	Super Bowl XLII	New York Giants	L 17–14
2009	AFC Wild Card	Baltimore Ravens	L 33–14
2010	Divisional Round	New York Jets	L 28–21
2011	Divisional Round	Denver Broncos	W 45–10
	AFC Championship	Baltimore Ravens	W 23–20
	Super Bowl XLVI	New York Giants	L 21–17
2012	Divisional Round	Houston Texans	W 41–28
	AFC Championship	Baltimore Ravens	L 28–13
2013	Divisional Round	Indianapolis Colts	W 43–22
	AFC Championship	Denver Broncos	L 26–16
2014	Divisional Round	Baltimore Ravens	W 35–31
	AFC Championship	Indianapolis Colts	W 45–7
	Super Bowl XLIX	Seattle Seahawks	W 28–24
2015	Divisional Round	Kansas City Chiefs	W 27–20
	AFC Championship	Denver Broncos	L 20–18
2016	Divisional Round	Houston Texans	W 34–16
	AFC Championship	Pittsburgh Steelers	W 36–17
	Super Bowl LI	Atlanta Falcons	W 34–28 (OT)
2017	Divisional Round	Tennessee Titans	W 35–14
	AFC Championship	Jacksonville Jaguars	W 24–20
	Super Bowl LII	Philadelphia Eagles	L 41–33
2018	Divisional Round	Los Angeles Chargers	W 41–28
	AFC Championship	Kansas City Chiefs	W 37–31 (OT)
	Super Bowl LIII	Los Angeles Rams	W 13–3
2019	AFC Wild Card	Tennessee Titans	L 20–13
2021	AFC Wild Card	Buffalo Bills	L 47–17
Overall Playoff Record: 37–22

All-Time Leaders: Top Players in Patriots History

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: Patriots Honored by the NFL

Many Patriots players and coaches have won major NFL awards. These awards are mostly from the Associated Press. Seasons where AFL awards were won (1960–1969) are noted.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Players of Note: Famous Patriots

Current Roster: Who Plays for the Patriots Now

New England Patriots roster
Quarterbacks 12 Tom Brady  7 Jacoby Brissett 10 Jimmy Garoppolo Running backs -- Rex Burkhead 46 James Develin FB 27 D. J. Foster 47 Glenn Gronkowski FB 33 Dion Lewis 28 James White Wide receivers 80 Danny Amendola PR -- Brandin Cooks 11 Julian Edelman 15 Chris Hogan 16 Devin Lucien 19 Malcolm Mitchell 18 Matthew Slater 17 DeAndrew White Tight ends -- Dwayne Allen 87 Rob Gronkowski -- Rob Housler 82 Matt Lengel 85 Michael Williams		Offensive linemen 60 David Andrews C 64 Chris Barker G 61 Marcus Cannon T 65 Jamil Douglas G 66 Chase Farris G 63 Tre' Jackson G 75 Ted Karras G 69 Shaq Mason G 77 Nate Solder T 62 Joe Thuney G 68 LaAdrian Waddle T Defensive linemen 97 Alan Branch DT 90 Malcom Brown DT -- Kony Ealy DE 98 Trey Flowers DE 92 Geneo Grissom DE -- Lawrence Guy DT 74 Woodrow Hamilton DT 96 Darius Kilgo DT 99 Vincent Valentine DT		Linebackers 44 Trevor Bates OLB 55 Jonathan Freeny OLB 54 Dont'a Hightower MLB 58 Shea McClellin OLB 50 Rob Ninkovich OLB 52 Elandon Roberts MLB 53 Kyle Van Noy OLB Defensive backs 23 Patrick Chung SS 22 Justin Coleman CB 43 Nate Ebner FS -- Stephon Gilmore CB 30 Duron Harmon FS 24 Cyrus Jones CB/KR 31 Jonathan Jones CB 36 Brandon King SS 32 Devin McCourty FS 37 Jordan Richards SS 25 Eric Rowe CB Special teams  6 Ryan Allen P 49 Joe Cardona LS  3 Stephen Gostkowski K				Reserve lists Unrestricted FAs 29 LeGarrette Blount RB 38 Brandon Bolden RB 14 Michael Floyd WR 83 Greg Scruggs TE Restricted FAs 21 Malcolm Butler CB 71 Cameron Fleming T Rookies in italics Roster updated March 28, 2017 Depth Chart • Transactions 62 Active, 0 Inactive, 6 FAs → AFC rosters → NFC rosters
AFC East BUF MIA NE NYJ North BAL CIN CLE PIT South HOU IND JAX TEN West DEN KC LV LAC NFC East DAL NYG PHI WAS North CHI DET GB MIN South ATL CAR NO TB West ARI LAR SF SEA

Pro Football Hall of Famers: Patriots in the Hall of Fame

The Pro Football Hall of Fame has honored six players who played most of their careers with the Patriots. In total, 12 people with Patriots ties are in the Hall of Fame (11 players and 1 coach).

Notes:

• Hall of Famers who played most of their career for the Patriots are in bold.
• Hall of Famers who played a smaller part of their career with the Patriots are in normal font.

New England Patriots in the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Players
No.	Name	Inducted	Position(s)	Tenure
85	Buoniconti, NickNick Buoniconti	2001	LB	1962–1968
73	Hannah, JohnJohn Hannah	1991	G	1973–1985
40	Haynes, MikeMike Haynes	1997	CB	1976–1982
24	Law, TyTy Law	2019	CB	1995–2004
28	Martin, CurtisCurtis Martin	2012	RB	1995–1997
66	McMichael, SteveSteve McMichael	2024	DT	1980
81	Moss, RandyRandy Moss	2018	WR	2007–2010
24	Revis, DarrelleDarrelle Revis	2023	CB	2014
55	Seau, JuniorJunior Seau	2015	LB	2006–2009
93	Seymour, RichardRichard Seymour	2022	DE	2001–2008
56	Tippett, AndreAndre Tippett	2008	LB	1982–1993
Coaches and Contributors
Name		Inducted	Position(s)	Tenure
Parcells, BillBill Parcells		2013	Head coach	1993–1996

Retired Numbers: Honoring Legends

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

The Patriots have officially retired eight jersey numbers. Three of these players were from the original AFL-era Boston Patriots. Andre Tippett's number 56 is unofficially retired. It has not been used since he retired in 1993.

Patriots Hall of Fame: Honoring Team Greats

The Patriots Hall of Fame honors important people from the team's history. It has 31 former players and four contributors. The team calls it "the franchise's highest individual honor." It 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 and trophies. It also has interactive exhibits.

A committee chooses candidates for the Hall of Fame. Fans then vote for one person to be inducted. Players and head coaches must be retired for at least four years to be eligible. Sometimes, a senior committee can vote in a player who has been retired for 25 years or more. Since 2009, owner Robert Kraft has also inducted "contributors." These are people like assistant coaches or 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 WR/KR Coach	1993–2007 2020–present	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
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
—	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	2001–2008	2023
75	Vince Wilfork	DL	2004–2014	2022

Notes:

• ^* = Inducted as a contributor
• ^~ = Inducted as a senior selection
• ^† = Posthumous induction

NFL All-Decade and Anniversary Team Selections

These Patriots were chosen for the American Football League All-Time Team (1960–1969). They were also selected for NFL all-decade teams after the AFL–NFL merger in 1970. This includes the National Football League 75th Anniversary All-Time Team and National Football League 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. Only those who played for New England during those decades are listed.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Patriots All-Decade Teams: Best Players of Each Era

Every ten years, the Patriots Hall of Fame committee names an all-decade team. This celebrates the best players from that time. They have also named all-decade teams for past decades.

1960s (AFL) All-Decade Team

In 1971, fans voted for a 10-year Patriots anniversary team. This team honored the best players from their time in the AFL. More selections for returner, special teamer, and coach were added in 2009.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Boston Patriots All-1960s team (1971)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Vito "Babe" Parilli (QB) 1961–1967
	Running back	Jim Nance (FB) 1965–1971 Larry Garron (RB) 1960–1968
	Wide receiver	Jim Colclough (WR) 1960–1968 Art Graham (WR) 1963–1968
	Tight end	Jim Whalen (TE) 1965–1969
	Offensive line	Charlie Long (T) 1961–1969 Tom Neville (T) 1965–1977 Billy Neighbors (G) 1962–1965 Len St. Jean (G) 1964–1973 Jon Morris (C) 1964–1974
Defense	Defensive line	Bob Dee (DE) 1960–1967 Larry Eisenhauer (DE) 1961–1969 Houston Antwine (DT) 1961–1971 Jim Lee Hunt (DT) 1960–1970
	Linebacker	Tom Addison (OLB) 1960–1967 Ed Philpott (OLB) 1967–1971 Nick Buoniconti (MLB) 1962–1968
	Cornerback	Chuck Shonta (CB) 1960–1967 Daryl Johnson (CB) 1968–1970
	Safety	Don Webb (SS) 1961–1971 Ron Hall (FS) 1961–1967
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Gino Cappelletti (K) 1960–1970 Tom Yewcic (P) 1961–1966
	Returner	Larry Garron 1960–1968
	Coverage	Don Webb 1961–1971
Coach	Coach	Mike Holovak 1961–1968

1970s All-Decade Team

In March 2009, as part of the Patriots' 50th anniversary, a group of media members chose all-decade teams for the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots All-1970s team (2009)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Steve Grogan (QB) 1975–1990
	Running back	Sam Cunningham (RB) 1973–1982 Andy Johnson (RB) 1974–1982
	Wide receiver	Stanley Morgan (WR) 1977–1989 Randy Vataha (WR) 1971–1976
	Tight end	Russ Francis (TE) 1975–1980, 1987–1989
	Offensive line	Leon Gray (T) 1973–1978 Tom Neville (T) 1965–1977 John Hannah (G) 1973–1985 Sam Adams Sr. (G) 1972–1980 Bill Lenkaitis (C) 1971–1981
Defense	Defensive line	Julius Adams (DE) 1971–1985, 1987 Tony McGee (DE) 1974–1981 Ray Hamilton (DT) 1973–1981
	Linebacker	Steve Zabel (OLB) 1975–1978 Steve King (OLB) 1973–1981 Steve Nelson (ILB) 1974–1987 Sam Hunt (ILB) 1974–1979
	Cornerback	Raymond Clayborn (CB) 1977–1989 Mike Haynes (CB) 1976–1982
	Safety	Tim Fox (SS) 1976–1981 Prentice McCray (FS) 1974–1980
Special teams	Kicker/punter	John Smith (K) 1974–1983 Mike Patrick (P) 1975–1978
	Returner	Mack Herron 1973–1975
	Coverage	Mosi Tatupu 1978–1990
Coach	Coach	Chuck Fairbanks 1973–1978

1980s All-Decade Team

In March 2009, as part of the Patriots' 50th anniversary, a group of media members chose all-decade teams for the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots All-1980s team (2009)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Steve Grogan (QB) 1975–1990
	Running back	Tony Collins (RB) 1981–1987 Craig James (RB) 1984–1988
	Wide receiver	Stanley Morgan (WR) 1977–1989 Irving Fryar (WR) 1984–1992
	Tight end	Lin Dawson (TE) 1981–1990
	Offensive line	Bruce Armstrong (T) 1987–2000 Brian Holloway (T) 1981–1986 John Hannah (G) 1973–1985 Ron Wooten (G) 1981–1988 Pete Brock (C) 1976–1987
Defense	Defensive line	Julius Adams (DE) 1971–1985, 1987 Garin Veris (DE) 1985–1991 Richard Bishop (DT) 1976–1981
	Linebacker	Andre Tippett (OLB) 1982–1993 Don Blackmon (OLB) 1981–1987 Steve Nelson (ILB) 1974–1987 Johnny Rembert (ILB) 1983–1992
	Cornerback	Raymond Clayborn (CB) 1977–1989 Ronnie Lippett (CB) 1983–1991
	Safety	Roland James (SS) 1980–1990 Fred Marion (FS) 1982–1991
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Tony Franklin (K) 1984–1987 Rich Camarillo (P) 1981–1987
	Returner	Irving Fryar 1984–1992
	Coverage	Mosi Tatupu 1978–1990
Coach	Coach	Raymond Berry 1984–1989

1990s All-Decade Team

In March 2009, as part of the Patriots' 50th anniversary, a group of media members chose all-decade teams for the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots All-1990s team (2009)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Drew Bledsoe (QB) 1993–2001
	Running back	Curtis Martin (RB) 1995–1997 Leonard Russell (RB) 1991–1993
	Wide receiver	Terry Glenn (WR) 1996–2001 Shawn Jefferson (WR) 1996–1999
	Tight end	Ben Coates (TE) 1991–1999
	Offensive line	Bruce Armstrong (T) 1987–2000 Pat Harlow (T) 1991–1995 Todd Rucci (G) 1993–1999 Max Lane (G) 1994–2000 Dave Wohlabaugh (C) 1995–1998
Defense	Defensive line	Willie McGinest (DE) 1994–2005 Brent Williams (DE) 1986–1993 Tim Goad (DT) 1988–1994
	Linebacker	Andre Tippett (OLB) 1982–1993 Chris Slade (OLB) 1993–2000 Vincent Brown (ILB) 1988–1995 Ted Johnson (ILB) 1995–2004
	Cornerback	Maurice Hurst (CB) 1989–1995 Ty Law (CB) 1995–2004
	Safety	Willie Clay (SS) 1996–1998 Lawyer Milloy (SS) 1996–2002
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Adam Vinatieri (K) 1996–2005 Tom Tupa (P) 1996–1998
	Returner	Dave Meggett 1995–1997
	Coverage	Larry Whigham 1994–2000
Coach	Coach	Bill Parcells 1993–1996

2000s All-Decade Team

On March 16, 2010, the Patriots Hall of Fame selection committee chose an all-decade team for the 2000s.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots All-2000s team (2010)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Tom Brady (QB) 2000–2019
	Running back	Corey Dillon (RB) 2004–2006
	Wide receiver	Randy Moss (WR) 2007–2010 Wes Welker (WR) 2007–2012 Troy Brown (WR) 1993–2007
	Tight end	Daniel Graham (TE) 2002–2006
	Offensive line	Matt Light (T) 2001–2011 Nick Kaczur (T) 2005–2010 Joe Andruzzi (G) 2000–2004 Logan Mankins (G) 2005–2013 Dan Koppen (C) 2003–2011
Defense	Defensive line	Richard Seymour (DE) 2001–2008 Ty Warren (DE) 2003–2010 Vince Wilfork (DT) 2004–2014
	Linebacker	Willie McGinest (OLB) 1994–2005 Mike Vrabel (OLB) 2001–2008 Tedy Bruschi (ILB) 1996–2008 Roman Phifer (ILB) 2001–2004
	Cornerback	Ty Law (CB) 1995–2004 Asante Samuel (CB) 2003–2007
	Safety	Lawyer Milloy (SS) 1996–2002 Rodney Harrison (SS) 2003–2008
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Adam Vinatieri (K) 1996–2005 Josh Miller (P) 2004–2006
	Returner	Kevin Faulk 1999–2011
	Coverage	Larry Izzo 2001–2008
Coach	Coach	Bill Belichick 2000–2023

2010s All-Decade Team

On April 29, 2020, the Patriots Hall of Fame selection committee chose an all-decade team for the 2010s.

New England Patriots All-2010s team (2020)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Tom Brady (QB) 2000–2019
	Running back	James White (RB) 2014–2021 James Develin (FB) 2012–2019
	Wide receiver	Wes Welker (WR) 2007–2012 Julian Edelman (WR) 2009–2020 Danny Amendola (Flex) 2013–2017
	Tight end	Rob Gronkowski (TE) 2010–2018
	Offensive line	Sebastian Vollmer (T) 2009–2016 Nate Solder (T) 2011–2017 Joe Thuney (G) 2016–2020 Logan Mankins (G) 2005–2013 David Andrews (C) 2015–present
Defense	Defensive line	Chandler Jones (DE) 2012–2015 Trey Flowers (DE) 2015–2018, 2023 Vince Wilfork (DT) 2004–2014 Lawrence Guy (DT) 2017–2023
	Linebacker	Rob Ninkovich (OLB) 2009–2016 Kyle Van Noy (OLB) 2016–2019, 2021 Jerod Mayo (ILB) 2008–2015 Dont'a Hightower (ILB) 2012–2021
	Cornerback	Malcolm Butler (CB) 2014–2017 Stephon Gilmore (CB) 2017–2020
	Safety	Patrick Chung (SS) 2009–2012, 2014–2020 Devin McCourty (FS) 2010–2022
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Stephen Gostkowski (K) 2006–2019 Ryan Allen (P) 2013–2018
	Returner	Julian Edelman 2009–2020
	Coverage	Matthew Slater 2008–2023
Coach	Coach	Bill Belichick 2000–2023

Patriots Anniversary Teams: Celebrating Milestones

The Patriots Hall of Fame committee also creates anniversary teams. These teams celebrate the best players up to that special year.

35th Anniversary Team (1994)

In 1994, a group of media members chose a 35th anniversary team.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots 35th Anniversary team (1994)
Unit	Position	Players
Offense	Quarterback	Steve Grogan (QB) 1975–1990
	Running back	Jim Nance (FB) 1965–1971 Sam Cunningham (HB) 1973–1982
	Wide receiver	Stanley Morgan (WR) 1977–1989 Gino Cappelletti (WR) 1960–1970
	Tight end	Russ Francis (TE) 1975–1980, 1987–1989
	Offensive line	Bruce Armstrong (T) 1987–2000 Tom Neville (T) 1965–1977 John Hannah (G) 1973–1985 Sam Adams Sr. (G) 1972–1980 Jon Morris (C) 1964–1974
Defense	Defensive line	Julius Adams (DE) 1971–1985, 1987 Larry Eisenhauer (DE) 1961–1969 Houston Antwine (DT) 1961–1971 Jim Lee Hunt (DT) 1960–1970
	Linebacker	Andre Tippett (LB) 1982–1993 Nick Buoniconti (LB) 1962–1968 Steve Nelson (LB) 1974–1987 Sam Hunt (LB) 1974–1979
	Cornerback	Mike Haynes (CB) 1976–1982 Raymond Clayborn (CB) 1977–1989
	Safety	Ron Hall (SS) 1961–1967 Fred Marion (FS) 1982–1991
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Gino Cappelletti (K) 1960–1970 Rich Camarillo (P) 1981-1987
	Coverage	Mosi Tatupu 1978–1990

50th Anniversary Team (2009)

In 2009, the Patriots Hall of Fame committee chose a 50th anniversary team.

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots 50th Anniversary team (2009)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Tom Brady (QB) 2000–2019
	Running back	Jim Nance (FB) 1965–1971 Sam Cunningham (RB) 1973–1982
	Wide receiver	Stanley Morgan (WR) 1977–1989 Troy Brown (WR) 1993–2007 Irving Fryar (WR) 1984–1992
	Tight end	Ben Coates (TE) 1991–1999
	Offensive line	Bruce Armstrong (T) 1987–2000 Matt Light (T) 2001–2011 John Hannah (G) 1973–1985 Logan Mankins (G) 2005–2013 Jon Morris (C) 1964–1974
Defense	Defensive line	Julius Adams (DE) 1971–1985, 1987 Richard Seymour (DE) 2001–2008 Houston Antwine (DT) 1961–1971 Vince Wilfork (DT) 2004–2014
	Linebacker	Andre Tippett (OLB) 1982–1993 Mike Vrabel (OLB) 2001–2008 Steve Nelson (ILB) 1974–1987 Nick Buoniconti (ILB) 1962–1968
	Cornerback	Mike Haynes (CB) 1976–1982 Ty Law (CB) 1995–2004
	Safety	Rodney Harrison (SS) 2003–2008 Fred Marion (FS) 1982–1991
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Adam Vinatieri (K) 1996–2005 Rich Camarillo (P) 1981-1987
	Returner	Kevin Faulk 1999–2011
	Coverage	Mosi Tatupu 1978–1990
Captains	Captains	Gino Cappelletti (Offense) 1960–1970 Tedy Bruschi (Defense) 1996–2008
Coach	Coach	Bill Belichick 2000–2023

All-Dynasty Team (2001–2019): The Best of the Best

On October 22, 2020, the Patriots Hall of Fame committee chose an "All-Dynasty Team." This team celebrates the best players from the Patriots dynasty (2001–2019).

Bold means the person is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

New England Patriots All-Dynasty team (2001–2019)
Unit	Position	Players & coach
Offense	Quarterback	Tom Brady (QB) 2000–2019
	Running back	Kevin Faulk (RB) 1999–2011 Corey Dillon (RB) 2004–2006 James White (RB) 2014–2021 James Develin (FB) 2012–2019
	Wide receiver	Troy Brown (WR) 1993–2007 Wes Welker (WR) 2007–2012 Randy Moss (WR) 2007–2010 Julian Edelman (WR) 2009–2020
	Tight end	Daniel Graham (TE) 2002–2006 Rob Gronkowski (TE) 2010–2018
	Offensive line	Matt Light (T) 2001–2011 Sebastian Vollmer (T) 2009–2016 Nate Solder (T) 2011–2017 Joe Andruzzi (G) 2000–2004 Logan Mankins (G) 2005–2013 Joe Thuney (G) 2016–2020 Dan Koppen (C) 2003–2011
Defense	Defensive line	Richard Seymour (DE) 2001–2008 Ty Warren (DE) 2003–2010 Vince Wilfork (DT) 2004–2014
	Linebacker	Willie McGinest (OLB) 1994–2005 Mike Vrabel (OLB) 2001–2008 Rob Ninkovich (OLB) 2009–2016 Tedy Bruschi (ILB) 1996–2008 Roman Phifer (ILB) 2001–2004 Dont'a Hightower (ILB) 2012–2021
	Cornerback	Ty Law (CB) 1995–2004 Asante Samuel (CB) 2003–2007 Stephon Gilmore (CB) 2017–2020
	Safety	Rodney Harrison (SS) 2003–2008 Devin McCourty (FS) 2010–2022 Patrick Chung (SS) 2009–2012, 2014–2019
Special teams	Kicker/punter	Adam Vinatieri (K) 1996–2005 Ryan Allen (P) 2013-2018
	Returner	Bethel Johnson 2003–2005 Ellis Hobbs 2005–2008 Julian Edelman 2009–2020
	Coverage	Larry Izzo 2001–2008 Matthew Slater 2008–present
	Long snapper	Lonie Paxton 2000–2008 Joe Cardona 2015–present
Coach	Coach	Bill Belichick 2000–2023

Pro Bowl Selections: All-Star Patriots

Many Patriots players have been chosen for the Pro Bowl (or the AFL All-Star game before 1970).

Two Patriots have won Pro Bowl MVP: Vito "Babe" Parilli in 1966 (AFL) and Ty Law in 1998.

• QB Tom Brady (14), Drew Bledsoe, Vito "Babe" Parilli (3) (AFL), 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

First-Team All-Pro Selections: Elite Patriots Players

These Patriots players were named First-team All-Pro by the Associated Press. This is a very high honor. Some were named 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

Administration and Personnel: Who Runs the Team

Ownership: Who Owns the Patriots

The Patriots have had four owners. The first was Billy Sullivan, from 1959 to 1988. During his 28 years, the Patriots had winning records and made playoff appearances. They played in the 1963 AFL Championship and Super Bowl XX.

After Sullivan, Victor Kiam owned the team from 1988 to 1992. Then, James Orthwein owned it from 1992 to 1994. Orthwein wanted to move the team to St. Louis. But Robert Kraft, who owned Foxboro Stadium, stopped the move. Kraft bought the team in 1994 for $175 million.

Kraft was a lifelong fan of the Patriots. He has supported the team greatly. Under Kraft, the Patriots have been the most successful NFL team since 1994. They have been to 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	320	163	0	6

Head Coaches: Leading the Team

The Patriots have had 15 head coaches. Jerod Mayo became the head coach in 2024. He is the first coach who also played for the team (2008–2015).

Bill Belichick was the head coach for 23 seasons (2000–2023). He is considered one of the greatest coaches ever. He led the Patriots to 17 division titles and 9 Super Bowl appearances. They won a record six Super Bowls under him.

Belichick had the longest coaching time in the NFL when he left. He is first in playoff coaching wins (31) and third in regular season wins (297). He is one of only three coaches to win six NFL titles. His 266 wins with the Patriots are by far the most in team history.

Belichick joined the Patriots in a "trade" from the New York Jets. He did not want to work under Bill Parcells at the Jets. The Patriots gave the Jets their first-round pick in the 2000 NFL draft for Belichick. In that same draft, the Patriots picked Tom Brady in the sixth round. Brady became one of the greatest quarterbacks ever.

Before Belichick, other coaches led the Patriots to championship games. These included Mike Holovak, Raymond Berry, and Bill Parcells. Five Patriots head coaches have won the Coach of the Year award. The first head coach 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–present

Note:

• ^* = Interim coach

New England Patriots staff
	Front office Chairman/CEO – Robert Kraft President – Jonathan Kraft Director of Player Personnel – Nick Caserio Director of College Scouting – Monti Ossenfort Director of Pro Personnel – Dave Ziegler Assistant Director of College Scouting – Brian Smith Director of Scouting Administration – Nancy Meier Football Research Director – Ernie Adams Director of Football/Head Coach Administration – Berj Najarian Head coaches Head Coach/General Manager – Bill Belichick Offensive Coaches Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks – Josh McDaniels Assistant Quarterbacks – Jerry Schuplinski Running Backs – Ivan Fears Wide Receivers – Chad O'Shea Tight Ends – Nick Caley Offensive Line – Dante Scarnecchia Offensive Assistant – Cole Popovich			Defensive Coaches Defensive Coordinator – Matt Patricia Defensive Line – Brendan Daly Linebackers – Brian Flores Cornerbacks – Josh Boyer Safeties – Steve Belichick Defensive Assistant – Mike Pellegrino Special Teams Coaches Special Teams – Joe Judge Assistant Special Teams – Raymond Ventrone Strength and Conditioning Strength and Conditioning – Moses Cabrera Assistant Strength and Conditioning – James Hardy → Coaching staff → Management → More NFL staffs
AFC East BUF MIA NE NYJ North BAL CIN CLE PIT South HOU IND JAX TEN West DEN KC LAC OAK NFC East DAL NYG PHI WAS North CHI DET GB MIN South ATL CAR NO TB West ARI LAR SF SEA

Team Culture: Beyond the Field

Cheerleaders: Supporting the Team

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. The long-time cheerleading director, Tracy Sormanti, passed away in 2020. She was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2021.

Mascots: Pat Patriot and the End Zone Militia

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 is a group of people who re-enact the American Revolutionary War. They stand at the back of the end zones during home games. When the Patriots score, the militia fires blanks from flintlock muskets. This is a loud and exciting tradition.

Entrance Theme: "Crazy Train"

Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train" is an unofficial theme song for the Patriots. It plays when they enter their home games and at Super Bowls. This started in 2005.

Fans: A Dedicated Following

The Patriots have many fans in the New England region of the United States. They also have fans in the Canadian province of Quebec and parts of Atlantic Canada.

Radio and Television: How to Watch and Listen

The Patriots' main radio station is WBZ-FM (98.5 FM). This station is part of the New England Patriots Radio Network. This network has 37 stations in 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 became the color commentator.

Any preseason games not shown nationally are on CBS's WBZ-TV. CBS also shows most regular-season Patriots games. When the Patriots play an NFC team at home, the games are on Fox affiliate WFXT-TV. NBC Sunday Night Football games are on Boston NBC station WBTS-CD.

Images for kids

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  The Patriots' wordmark used in the Sullivan era between 1960 and 1992

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  The Patriots' wordmark used from 1993 to 2013, with the blue darkened in 2000. A version with the "Flying Elvis" attached to the top was frequently used

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  The Patriots' wordmark used since 2013. A version with a small "Flying Elvis" underneath the block letters is also commonly seen, such as in the end zone of Gillette Stadium

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  The uniforms worn by the Patriots in the Sullivan era from 1960 to 1992, with variations in the striping throughout the years in the shoulders and sleeves. The face mask color was gray from 1960 to 1981, white from 1982 to 1990 and red from 1991 to 1992.

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  The uniforms worn by the Patriots in the early Kraft era from 1993 to 1999, with alterations specifically in the numbers, shoulders, and stripes between 1993 and 1995 before finally settling on a look until 2000. The face mask color also changed from silver in 1993 to red in 1994–present.

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  The primary uniforms worn by the Patriots in the dynasty era from 2000 to 2019, including a red throwback version released in 2002, then not seen again until 2010. The pictured red throwback had minor differences from each variation from 2002, 2010–2012 before being shelved due to NFL helmet policies. The Patriots also wore red AFL-patched throwback jerseys (for the 50th anniversary of the AFL) in 2009 along with the other original AFL franchises, however those jerseys were more based on the 1961 season specific appearance.

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  The primary uniforms worn by the Patriots in the post-dynasty era from 2020–present, with the red throwback returning for use starting in the 2022 season, due to the NFL reverting their helmet policies. It is the same version as the 2012 dynasty-era alternate.

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  Patriots players during training camp in 2009

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  One of the two Patriots' 767s taxiing at Logan International Airport in 2020

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  Bill Belichick, after resigning from the Jets before ever coaching a game, was "traded" from the Jets to the Patriots in 2000 for a first round pick, which turned out to be one of the most notorious transactions in NFL history.

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  DT Ty Warren takes down Bills QB J. P. Losman for a safety in 2006.

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  RB Craig James rushes the ball past the Dolphins' defense in the 1985 AFC Championship game.

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  The Pats facing the Colts in 2011

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  LB Willie McGinest

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  LB Tedy Bruschi

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  LB Mike Vrabel

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  The Super Bowl banners for the Patriots' first three league championships at Gillette Stadium (pictured in 2007, they have since switched the location of them within the stadium, alongside the addition of three more championship banners).

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  A Super Bowl hero, CB Malcolm Butler made one of the greatest plays in NFL history with a game-clinching interception at the goal line in Super Bowl XLIX, ensuring the Patriots' victory in the final seconds of the game.

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  RB James White tallied one of the most impressive Super Bowl performances of all time in Super Bowl LI, with 139 yards from scrimmage (29 rushing, 110 receiving), as well as holding multiple Super Bowl records such as most receptions, most receiving yards by a running back, and most points scored in regulation and overtime (20, and 6).

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  LB Dont'a Hightower had two memorable plays in two of the Patriots' Super Bowl wins that were pivotal to the eventual victories. In Super Bowl XLIX, he had a last second tackle on Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch at the one-yard line in the final minute of the game, forcing the Seahawks to have to call another play to reach the end zone. The Seahawks would throw the game-losing interception to Butler the next play, sealing the Patriots' fourth Super Bowl win. In Super Bowl LI, his strip sack on Falcons QB Matt Ryan was what turned out to be a crucial catalyst that helped led to the Patriots' historical comeback down 28–3.

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  The Patriots snapping the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX.

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  The longest tenured and most decorated player in franchise history, Tom Brady holds nearly every record in career, single-season, and single-game passing statistics for the Patriots (regular season and playoffs), in addition to having the most total games played with the franchise.

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  A career Patriot and a 3× Super Bowl champion, RB Kevin Faulk is the club's all-time leader in all-purpose yards (receiving, rushing, and return yards combined) with 12,340 total yards.

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  3× Super Bowl champion K Stephen Gostkowski is the team's all-time leader in points scored with 1,775 total points. He also holds the single-season scoring record with 158 in 2013.

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  A three-time NFL MVP, two-time NFL OPOY, NFL CPOY and four-time Super Bowl MVP (the NFL-record for the most Super Bowl MVPs with one franchise) with the Patriots, Tom Brady is seen celebrating the team's dramatic comeback victory over the Falcons in Super Bowl LI

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  CB Stephon Gilmore was an integral member of the Patriots' late 2010s defenses, achieving two-time First-team All-Pro honors and the franchise's first NFL DPOY recipient in 2019. His fourth-quarter interception during the final minutes of Super Bowl LIII helped seal the Patriots' eventual victory.

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  Hall of Fame G John Hannah, widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history. Spending his entire career with the Patriots, Hannah received many individual accolades and awards, and is a franchise icon.

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  Hall of Fame CB, 3× Super Bowl champion Ty Law (pictured with Denver Broncos). Law is tied for the record of most interceptions in the franchise's history (36). Law also had one of the most memorable moments in Patriots history, with a 47-yard pick-six in Super Bowl XXXVI.

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  Hall of Fame DE, 3× Super Bowl champion Richard Seymour. Seymour was considered one of the most versatile defensive lineman in the NFL during his tenure.

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  Hall of Fame LB Andre Tippett, the Patriots' all-time sack leader (100.0). Tippett achieved his sack totals in only 11 seasons played.

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  Hall of Fame WR Randy Moss, widely regarded as one of the greatest receivers of all time, caught an NFL-record (still standing) 23 receiving touchdowns in a single-season as a Patriot, during the historic undefeated 16–0 2007 season.

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  Tom Brady

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  John Hannah

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  Bill Belichick

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  Known affectionately as "Mr. Patriot", FL/K Gino Cappelletti was one of the franchise's first star players, playing from the inaugural season until the 1970 season. He then remained close to the team as broadcaster until 2012.

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  RB Sam "Bam" Cunningham is the franchise's all-time rushing yards leader. He was the leading rusher of the historical 1978 team, in which the Patriots achieved an NFL record 3,165 total rushing yards as a team. This league record stood until 2019, when the Ravens surpassed the record.

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  QB Steve Grogan was known as one of the daring players of his era, with his willingness to scramble out of the pocket. His 12 rushing touchdowns as a QB in 1976 would stand as single-season NFL-record until 2011, when Cam Newton surpassed it.

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  K Adam Vinatieri began his long and storied career with the Patriots, completing multiple franchise-altering kicks to help the team reach and win three Super Bowls. Vinatieri kicked two famous field goals in the Tuck Rule Game in blizzard-like conditions, as well as the game-winning field goals in the Patriots' first two Super Bowl victories.

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  WR Wes Welker, despite being undrafted and undersized, broke barriers and re-defined the slot receiver position in the NFL. He holds the franchise's career receptions record (672), single-season receptions record (123 in 2009), and single-season receiving yards record (1,569 yards in 2011).

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  A Rutgers product, FS Devin McCourty was one of the defensive stalwarts of the 2010s teams. A career Patriot, McCourty is considered one of the greatest leaders to ever don a Patriots uniform, he was named a team captain every year after his rookie season for the rest of his 13-year career. His level of play led to his role in three Super Bowl championships.

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  LB Steve Nelson was a defensive anchor for the Patriots for 14 seasons. He led the Patriots in tackles in eight of his 14 seasons, including an unofficial team record of 207 in 1984.

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  S Rodney Harrison joined the Patriots after the team failed to repeat as champions in the 2002 season. His physicality, mental toughness and work ethic was a perfect fit and led to Harrison having a big role in the Patriots winning back-to-back Super Bowls in 2003 and 2004.

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  DT Vince Wilfork was drafted in the 2004 NFL Draft and contributed immediately. Wilfork is known as one of the greatest pure nose tackles in NFL history, and was a favorite amongst teammates and fans alike. A member of two Super Bowl winning teams, Wilfork was the only Patriots player besides Tom Brady to have won in both decades of the dynasty (2004 and 2014).

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  Robert Kraft, a native Bostonian and a Patriots fanatic before purchasing the team, bought the franchise in 1994.

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  Bill Belichick, head coach from 2000 to 2023, led the Patriots to six Super Bowl titles. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches of all time.

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  The team's cheerleading squad performing a routine in 2007

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  Pat Patriot in 2009

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  Patriots fans rallying in celebration of the team's Super Bowl XXXVIII championship in front of Boston City Hall in 2003

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  Patriots fans in attendance for the victory parade of Super Bowl LI on Boylston St., Boston in 2017

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  Map of New England Patriots radio affiliates

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  Special teams gunner Matthew Slater, widely regarded as one of the greatest special teams players ever, holds the record for the most Pro Bowl selections of any special teams player in NFL history with 10 selections.