On Friday morning, the NFL world was devastated to learn about the death of a beloved former wide receiver.
David Patten, a member of the first three New England Patriots Super Bowl championship teams, passed away this week. He was just 47 years old.
Initial reports suggested he was involved in an automobile accident, but those were unsubstantiated at the time. Later Friday afternoon, police announced an official cause of death.
“According to South Carolina Highway Patrol Lance Cpl. Nick Pye, a motorcycle driver — identified by the coroner as Patten — crossed the median, causing a crash involving two other cars,” ESPN said in a report. The accident is reportedly under investigation.
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft issued a statement after Patten’s passing.
“I am heartbroken by the news of David’s passing. He was a devout Christian who followed his passion following his football career and founded his own ministry.
David transitioned from an undersized and understated wide receiver to a powerful and passionate preacher. In New England, he will always be remembered as a three-time Super Bowl Champion.”
Patten spent four years with the Patriots – winning three Super Bowls.
He caught 165 passes for 2,513 yards and 16 touchdowns during that run, with 15 postseason catches for 174 yards and two touchdowns. He spent two seasons in Washington before floating around the league for a few years.
Patten eventually stepped away from the game in 2010.
Our thoughts are with the Patten family.
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