Thank You Tedy

The end of an era for another Ted in the area this weekend.

Tedy Bruschi will formally announce his retirement tomorrow morning. The ultimate Patriot, Bruschi was the longest tenured Patriot and one of the only holdovers Belichick kept (obviously for his knowledge of the game). He will most certainly be remembered for returning to the field quicker than anyone expected (if he even was going to return) after he suffered a stroke in 2005. I will remember Tedy for his nose for the ball (especially pre-stroke). His countless interceptions, returns for TDs, and essence for always being in the right place at the right time.

The fall out of losing the 36-year old's services will be interesting. His $1.9 million salary, off the books. His declining skills have become more obvious, Belichick had demoted him to second string and he was noticeably slow the other night giving up a big play in the Redskin game. We will bid Tedy farewell, but the march toward the season will go one.

Having said that, the number 54, will be forever associated with Tedy. His leadership and knowledge of the game, irreplaceable.