New England Patriots May Say Goodbye to Old Friends

We all know what happens when that time comes for any NFL player, that it's one of the hardest things that they will ever have to decide in their lives. While Brett Favre may have had the option to come back and play, fair or not, most players will say goodbye and mean it. The Patriots have two legendary players who finished the season with injuries, one of which was tearful when he left the field waving to the fans.

Tedy Bruschi will go down as one of the most dedicated athletes the world has ever seen. After coming off a SuperBowl victory against the Eagles in SuperBowl XXXIX, Bruschi suffered a minor stroke. The stroke shocked the world, fans, family, and Bruschi himself.

There are memorable images of Bruschi taking out quarterbacks, running touchdowns for interceptions, and celebrating with the fans in snowy Foxborough. Here was this larger than life man who's career may have been ended by a sudden stroke. But Bruschi being the man he is, didn't want to hear any of that.

After taking some recovery time, Tedy was back in time for some training camp and took the field that season. It was by far one of the most inspiring moments sports has ever seen. But at age 35, Bruschi suffered an injury in week 14 of this season. Which asks the question, was this the last time he will ever step on the field?

Rodney Harrison is considered one of the greatest safeties in NFL histories. While some say Harrison may be the dirties player in the NFL, I happened to disagree. Rodney Harrison gives 100% on every play and it shows in his outstanding career statistics. Rodney Harrison's most memorable moment was his first Super Bowl victory with the Patriots.

Here was a player who put everything on the line, even for a sub-par San Diego Chargers team. After the SuperBowl was over, Harrison grabbed Bill Belichick and with tears in his eyes said "Thank you." At 36, Harrison suffered a torn bicep injury in week seven. While he was being carted off the field, Harrison seemed extremely emotional. With tears in his eyes, Harrison waved to the crowd, almost as if he was saying goodbye.

Whether or not Tedy Bruschi or Rodney Harrison return, they will never be forgotten. Their achievments are grade A in every class. And while they may be enjoying their time off and spending time with their families, both of them will be extremely missed. Good luck gentlemen, good luck.