Former Patriots Receiver David Patten Dies at 47

Former New England Patriots wide receiver David Patten, who won three Super Bowl championships with the franchise during his career, was killed in a motorcycle crash outside Columbia, South Carolina on Thursday, according to Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford.

According to South Carolina Highway Patrol Lance Cpl. Nick Pye, a motorcycle driver, who was later identified by the coroner as Patten, crossed the median, causing a crash involving two other cars. One of the cars’ drivers was also taken to a hospital with undisclosed injuries (h/t ESPN).

“I am heartbroken by the news of David’s passing,” Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in a statement. “He was a devout Christian who followed his passion following his football career and founded his own ministry. David transitioned from an undersized and understated wide receiver to a powerful and passionate preacher. In New England, he will always be remembered as a three-time Super Bowl Champion.”

Patten spent 12 years in the NFL, playing for five teams including the Patriots from 2001-2004. Patten also played for the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints and Washington, finishing his career in 2008 with 324 receptions for 4,715 yards and 24 touchdowns..