David Patten

David Patten, born August 19, 1974, in Hopkins, South Carolina, began his football journey at Lower Richland High School, where he showcased his athletic abilities catching passes. He continued his collegiate career at Western Carolina University, where he excelled, averaging 3.6 catches in 1994 and recording 59 catches for 881 yards in his senior year of 1995, earning selection to the All-Southern Conference team. Despite going undrafted in the 1996 NFL draft, Patten started his professional career in the Arena Football League with the Albany Firebirds.

Patten’s NFL career spanned 12 seasons, from 1997 to 2008. He signed with the New York Giants in 1997, where he developed his skills as a wide receiver and kick returner. He later played for the Cleveland Browns, New England Patriots, Washington Redskins, and New Orleans Saints. His most notable period was with the New England Patriots from 2001 to 2004, where he was a key player in three Super Bowl victories (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX). A significant moment in his career occurred on October 21, 2001, against the Indianapolis Colts, when he became one of only a few players in NFL history to run, catch, and throw for a touchdown in a single game. He achieved career highs with the Patriots in 2002, recording 61 receptions and 824 yards, and in 2004 with seven touchdown grabs.

After retiring from the NFL in 2010, Patten pursued further education, returning to Western Carolina University to complete his degree in social work. He then joined the university’s football coaching staff as an assistant, a position he held for nine seasons until his passing in 2021. His career demonstrated a commitment to both athletic excellence and community involvement.