The Facts: Patten is retiring from the NFL, announcing his decision this morning. Patten was out of football last season.
Diehards Line:"Some felt I signed back with the [Patriots] to retire, but that was not part of my thought process," Patten said told reporters. "I honestly felt like I could still play this game and play at a high level. I felt the competitive spirit and nature was still there. ... But over the course of the last two days and over the course of the break away from the team, there was a lot of reflection. There was a lot of contemplation. I just felt like it was time." Patten drew high praise from HC Bill Belichick. "David and I talked this morning, and he informed of his desire to retire at this point," Belichick said. "We have a lot of guys that work hard. David sets the pace as far as work ethic. ..." Patten caught touchdowns in the 2001 AFC Championship game and Super Bowl.