David Patton, who helped the New England Patriots win three Super Bowls between 2001 and 2004, died Thursday, according to a statement from the Patriots.
A native of South Carolina, Patton was 47 years old.
According to The State newspaper, the Richland County (SC) coroner confirmed that Patton died in a motorcycle accident. The South Carolina Highway Patrol says Patton's motorcycle crossed the center line to resist traffic and collided with another vehicle just outside of Columbia, South Carolina.
Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft said: "I am shocked by the news of David's passing." “He was a devout Christian who followed his passion after his football career and established his own ministry. David transformed from an under-sized and underrated wide receiver into a powerful and passionate preacher. In New England He will always be remembered as a three-time Super Bowl champion."
Patton's manager and friend Sam Gordon expressed his grief in a heartfelt post on social media.
Gordon wrote, "Very few people get a chance to call their childhood heroes/favourite players their friends. You gave me this blessing." "Thank you so much for your friendship, your inspiration, and trusting me to be your manager."
Patton played for five different NFL teams in his 12-year career, finding his greatest success as a member of the Patriots.
Patton held the distinction of catching the first Super Bowl touchdown pass of Tom Brady's career in 2002. Patton's twisting catch for an 8-yard score was the only offensive touchdown for the Patriots in their 20-17 win over the St.
Patton was with the Patriots for two more Super Bowl wins over the next three years.
In an Instagram Story post, Brady wrote of Patton, "The consummate professional. Rip my friend. My love goes to David's family."
Former Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe tweeted: "Great player. Better man. Rest in peace my friend."
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said: "It breaks my heart to hear of David's tragic passing at such a young age." "I am grateful to have coached David. He is an essential man and player in Patriots history, without whom we would not have been Super Bowl champions. I especially appreciate David for his professional journey."
Patton was a standout wide receiver at Western Carolina University, where he played from 1992–1995 and All-Southern Conference as a senior. His son, Dakan Patton, attends varsity and is a senior wide receiver on this year's Catamount team.
One of Patton's other sons, Quinton Patton, is a great wide receiver at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
David Patton was not drafted in 1996, and spent a year playing field football before getting his shot in the NFL with the New York Giants in 1997. He also played for the Cleveland Browns, the Washington football team and the New Orleans Saints.
Patton scored 24 touchdowns in his NFL career, 16 of which came with the Patriots.
Belichick said, "As much as he is, David epitomizes the unhinged, self-made player who overcame enormous odds not only to get a job in the NFL but to become a key player on multiple championship teams." "I can speak for anyone who had the pleasure of being around David that his work ethic, positive energy and character were noble. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."