Archives for April 22, 2002

‘His Friday offer of a second-round pick in next year’s draft had been flatly rejected by the Patriots. But acquiring Bledsoe was simply too good of an opportunity to pass up. It was time to sweeten the deal.’

‘The Patriots didn’t arrive at this decision lightly. They know the risk of dealing the holder of virtually all of their passing records to an AFC East rival. They accept the fact they might be playing Russian roulette by going with Tom Brady as their quarterback.’

‘The Buffalo Bills walked away from the NFL draft Sunday with four players who have a chance to start or see significant playing time as rookies.’

‘"The fans deserve it," Donahoe said.’

‘Serves as International Chairman of the Children’s Miracle Network. . . . Founded the Drew Bledsoe Foundation, whose mission is to improve the lives of American children by teaching parenting skills to parents.’

‘"They are going to have to kick me out of the film rooms because I am going to be in there as much as possible, learning that position and doing everything I can to make up for all the years I have not been a defensive back," Wire said.’

‘In addition, a four-pack of seats is being offered for $120 – 30 percent less than the regular individual game ticket price. This deal brings the cost of tickets within reach of more families, and eases the minds of parents who never knew if they were going to be seated next to an obnoxious fan.’

‘Cornerback was one of the Bills’ most pressing needs. Thomas, last season’s Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year, was Buffalo’s only cornerback draftee. Be it the sixth or fourth or second round, he has his chance. "That’s what I want,” Thomas said. "I’ve just got to prove something now. Basically, growing up, I’ve always had to prove myself. It’s another phase. When I prove myself, everybody will see."’

‘”I think if there’s not a bounce in everybody’s step, I’ll be surprised after what’s happened this weekend,” Donahoe said.’

”’I’ve been around this team for many years, and this trade is one of the most exciting we’ve ever made, maybe the most exciting,” Wilson said.’

‘For the first time since 1996 when Jim Kelly retired, the Bills actually have a top-shelf NFL quarterback to guide their offense.’

‘"We were ready to go, and it was a significant draft. And it’s nice icing on the cake when you can top the weekend off with Drew Bledsoe. Our job has just started, but we think it’s a great start."’

‘"I’m disappointed that I won’t get the chance to play but I’ll do what I can to be prepared and to help him (Bledsoe) be successful," Van Pelt said. "As a backup, you’re one play away so I’ll prepare myself like I have for the last eight years."’

‘Bledsoe is New England’s all-time leader in completions (2,544), attempts (4,518) and yards (29,657), and he ranks second in TD passes with 166 behind only Steve Grogan (182). Bledsoe also owns the single-game and single-season team marks in completions, attempts and yards.’

‘Donahoe, just a little more than year on the job in Buffalo, said that is a leading question among the many letters he receives from fans. Credit the Bills, who are seriously trying to develop and re-develop a stronger fan base, with responding.’