New England Patriots Welcome Back David Patten

Today the Patriots announced the signing of veteran WR David Patten, who many Patriots fans may remember from the four seasons he spent in Foxboro—and the three Superbowl wins he was a part of.  There weren't too many players on the roster last year that could say they were there for all three Superbowl wins, so bringing back a player that was is an incredibly good idea for the organization.  I tend to think they're adding leadership on the side of the ball where there is no leadership lacking, but any good addition is welcome, that's for sure.

On a team desperately searching for a third option at the WR spot behind superstars Randy Moss and Wes Welker, bringing in a veteran, proven receiver who can still contribute is a great move.  Bringing in a guy like Patten, however, is an interesting idea, but let's not equate the two (Patten, and a veteran proven receiver who can still contribue).  Patten was cut by the Saints two years ago, didn't make the Browns last year, and I don't know that I hold out a lot of hope for him to make it much further than he did in Cleveland with the Patriots.  One thing is for sure: If he does, it'll simply be due to his experience in the system and not his playmaking ability, as after 13 seasons in the NFL, his best days are clearly far behind him.

During his previous time with New England, Patten caught 165 passes for over 2,500 yards and 16 touchdowns.  The highlight of his time here came in the 2001 Superbowl victory over the Rams when he caught an eight yard pass (and the Patriots' lone touchdown of the game) from then new QB Tom Brady.  This play was recently discussed by Christopher Price of weei.com, and rated the fourth-most underrated play in Patriots history.

Only time will tell if Patten's addition this time will make the impact it did last time—although I doubt he'll catch the lone touchdown in next year's Superbowl (but who knows).  I wish him the best of luck and certainly enjoy seeing a familiar face back on the roster.  I will follow with contract details as soon as they're released.