Houston Texans Sign Vince Wilfork: Tom Brady Writes Farewell Message
Veteran Vince WIlfork will be headed to Texas.
Sources reported that the defensive tackle has signed a two-year deal with the Texans. The contract is worth $9 million with a $5 million guarantee.
"This has been an interesting process for me and my family, one we have taken very seriously and given a lot of thought," Wilfork tweeted his statement Monday. "We want to thank the Kraft family and the entire Patriot organization for the last 11 years however we will be starting a new chapter in our lives as Houston Texans."
The New England Patriots released Wilfork right before the start of the new league year. He was due a $4 million roster bonus. In 2014, Wilfork totaled 47 tackles and one interception.
Head coach Bill Belichick said in his statement, "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 lineman 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."
The 33-year-old has only played for the Patriots since he was selected in the first round of the 2004 NFL draft. In his 11 years, he has recorded 516 combined tackles, 16 sacks, four forced fumbles, 12 fumble recoveries and three interceptions. He has won two Super Bowls with them.
Former teammate quarterback Tom Brady posted his farewell:
Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman also posted a message for Wilfork:
