A Quick Shoutout to Vince Wilfork

Just wanted to say a few words this morning about Vince Wilfork. In case you missed it, Big Vince told reporters last night that he’s probably played his last NFL game. He’ll take some time to mull it over with his family, but it’s likely we’ve seen the last of the Texans’ defensive lineman.

Vince burst onto the scene in 2004 as a first round draft pick from The U. In 11 season with the Pats, Wilfork was a 5-time Pro Bowler and (finally) made first-team All-Pro in 2012. He bookended his New England career with victories in Super Bowls XXXIX and XLIX. Most importantly, he was the key link on a defense that transitioned from McGinest/Bruschi/Vrabel/Harrison to McCourty/Ninkovich/Mayo/Hightower. A vital aspect of the Patriot Dynasty has been the team’s culture of accountability and mental toughness, and Wilfork is perhaps the best representation of its effect. Vince grew up in New England. He learned how to win, and when the time came, he taught others how to win. Watching him mull around the field after Houston’s loss, it sure felt like the end. A big thank you to Big Vince, and good luck in retirement.