Bledsoe Rides Into the Sunset

On Wednesday ex-Patriots QB Drew Bledsoe decided to call it a career rather than be a backup quarterback in the NFL. Although it has been a few years since Bledsoe was a Patriot he did occupy a lofty position in the New England sports world throughout the 1990’s. When he was drafted number one by the Patriots in 1993 he brought an optimism that carried on to the 1996 Superbowl and until he was dethroned by the next franchise quarterback. Bledsoe was the face of the New England Patriots for marketing purposes, with a rocket arm he represented the classic gunslinger NFL quarterback.

But the league changed with faster defenses and the corresponding faster quarterbacks such as Steve McNair, Donovan McNabb and Michael Vick. It seemed Bledsoe couldn’t adapt to the all out pass rush. Refusing to safely get rid of the ball, his mind could not equal his God-given throwing abilities. The injury in 2001 which cost him his starting job occurred during this kind of play as he attempted to dash to the sidelines when he saw no one to throw to.

Reunited in Dallas with Bill Parcells (who also has retired), Bledsoe was supposed to be protected by a stronger offensive line because of his statue-esque composure behind center. But this past year his pocket frequently collapsed and he again could not adapt.

His pride has now stepped up and can’t allow him to continue as a backup, and at 35 he rides into the sunset. Good luck Drew.