Former New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork was announced as this year’s inductee into the team’s Hall of Fame on Tuesday. With that in mind, he shared some final thoughts on his playing career.
Wilfork was drafted by the Patriots with the 21st overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. He would go on to have a long and successful career. He played 12 seasons, recording 559 combined tackles and 16 sacks in what was a 13-year career. He made the Pro Bowl five times, and won the Super Bowl two times as a member of the Patriots.
Speaking to assembled media on Tuesday, he gave an explanation as to why he believes he is one of the best defensive tackles ever, per Zack Cox of NESN.com.
“I believe I was probably one of the best true two-gap nose tackles that ever played the game, and I would put that against anyone. I mean, I played from left to right. I played five (technique), four, three, two, one on both sides. You don’t have any noses doing that, and when you can find one, you can let me know.
“So I’ve always regarded myself as one of the best defensive tackles and the best nose tackle to ever play the game. And people can fight me on it. People can have their opinions on it. But I’m just telling you where I stand, because I was that one guy that can go from left to right defensive end and anywhere in the middle. So I was a nightmare for offenses trying to figure out where I’m going to be, and all that credit goes to Bill Belichick.”
Follow the Patriots Wire Podcast:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts
It would be hard to argue with Wilfork’s resume, as he helped solidify stellar Patriots defenses during the first Patriots Super Bowl run. He helped stabilize the front end of the Patriots defense for several years. Throughout his time with New England, Wilfork played at a consistent level. Now, he is immortalized in Patriots history forever.
