Bill Belichick's Statement On Vince Wilfork Is As Heartfelt As It Gets

(CSNNE) — Few players reached or will ever reach the special level of Vince Wilfork.  He is a great champion and one of the classiest people I have ever been around – just a kind, genuine and giving person who was all about our team, football, winning and bringing joy to others.  There may have never been anyone at his position with as much strength, toughness, intelligence, instinctiveness and athleticism.  He is the best defensive linemen I ever coached, an all-time great Patriot whose place on our team will be missed but whose remarkable career as a Patriot will be remembered forever. – Bill Belichick

Wow. We knew most of these things already, but it means something special coming from Coach Belichick. Vince will probably frame this and place it on the mantle in front of all his Super Bowl trophies. Tons of guys have won the Super Bowl, very few have been complimented by Bill Belichick in such a manner. Tedy Bruschi is the only one that comes to mind. Belichick crying and calling Bruschi “the perfect player” is one of the top five most emotional moments of my life. That’s what this feels like. Bill is like a stern dad. He’s tough on you and he demands the best, but when you reach your potential there’s no one more proud and happy for you. He’s Mr. No Comment so if he releases a statement as glowing as this then you know it absolutely broke his heart to see Vince go. Kinda makes me want to cry picturing Bill pen this while tears fall onto the paper and bleed the ink (Bill’s definitely a pen and paper guy, more personal).