The New England Patriots will open their 2024 campaign against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on Sunday, September 8 at 1:00 p.m. ET, which is now 49 days away.
Until the opening kickoff of the season for the Patriots, we’ll be counting down each day by looking back at those who have worn each specific jersey number.
Since 1960, 11 players have worn No. 49 in New England, and with 49 days until their first game of the year, here’s a look at everyone who’s worn the number for the team:
LS Joe Cardona: 2015-Present
- Has appeared in 144 games for New England over nine seasons, recording 16 tackles
- Expected to be the team’s long snapper again in 2024
LB Vince Redd: 2008
- Appeared in five games for New England in his lone season with the team, recording eight tackles, one pass defensed and one forced fumble
LB Eric Alexander: 2004-05
- Appeared in 45 games for New England over six seasons, recording 48 tackles and one forced fumble
- Won a Supr Bowl with the Patriots
- Also played for the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars
TE Sean McDermott: 2003
- Appeared in one game for New England in his lone season with the team
- Won a Super Bowl with the Patriots
- Also played for the Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans and Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TE Fred Baxter: 2002
- Appeared in 13 games for New England over two seasons, recording two targets
- Also played for the New York Jets and Chicago Bears
WR Kitrick Taylor: 1989
- Appeared in four games for New England in his lone season with the team, returning three kicks for 52 total yards
- Also played for the San Diego Chargers, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs
TE Russ Francis: 1987
- Appeared in 92 games for New England over six seasons, recording 207 receptions for 3,157 yards and 27 touchdowns
- Made three Pro Bowls with the Patriots
- Also played for the San Francisco 49ers and won a Super Bowl
TE Brian Williams: 1982
- Appeared in one game for New England in his lone season with the team
DB Ralph Anderson: 1973
- Appeared in 13 games for New England in his lone season with the team, recording two interceptions and two fumble recoveries
- Also played for the Pittsburgh Steelers
LB Dick Blanchard: 1972
- Appeared in 14 games for New England in his lone season with the team, recording one interception
WR Tom Richardson: 1969-70
- Appeared in 15 games for Boston over two seasons, recording one reception for five yards
