Former Patriots Security Matt Stevens Useless at 51; Super Bowl Group Mourns

Matt Stevens, one of many essential members of the 2001 New England Patriots Super Bowl championship workforce, died final week on the age of 51. The Patriots introduced the information on Thursday, March 28, in a tribute to the late former security’s contribution to the group.

Stevens’ NFL Run With Patriots and Other Teams

Stevens, a third-round choice within the 1996 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills, had an eight-year profession within the league. He performed for numerous groups all through his profession, together with Washington, Philadelphia, Houston, and New England. Stevens was a gentle determine on the sector and made useful contributions wherever he went.

In 2001 with the Patriots, Stevens appeared in 15 of 16 video games and had 43 tackles, two passes defensed, one interception, a compelled fumble, and a fumble restoration. CBS Sports experiences that he was instrumental within the workforce’s march to the Super Bowl, the place he had six tackles and assisted the Patriots in profitable their first championship.

An Impressive Collegiate Career at Appalachian State

Before his skilled profession, Stevens established himself at Appalachian State University as a two-time All-American security. His distinctive efficiency in faculty paved his approach into the NFL, the place he proved to be a hard-hitting and astute defensive again.

Tragedy Hit After His Playing Days

Stevens’ life modified drastically in 2007 when he suffered a devastating motorbike accident, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down on account of a spinal harm.

Essentially Sports experiences that Stevens as soon as mentioned that he wouldn’t purchase a bike. However, he didn’t fulfill his promise and later purchased an excellent bike. Unfortunately, this was the identical factor that resulted in his spinal twine harm.

Though his state of affairs was dire, Stevens confirmed big energy. Thanks to the usage of a wearable exoskeleton and custom-made leg braces, he regained partial mobility. His energy and grit in overcoming all this impressed numerous folks.

Stevens is survived by his mom, Jean Thillberg, father, Vincent Stevens, and brother, Mark Stevens. He can also be survived by his two kids, Cassidie and Colin Stevens, of Avon by the Sea, New Jersey. His prolonged household, together with uncles, aunts, and cousins, may even miss him dearly.

Fans gave Stevens a tribute with “RIP” messages throughout social media platforms. Some missed his early days with Patriots and recalled his Super Bowl run with them.