Following the latest trend, a banner featuring Vince Wilfork was seen flying over Gillette Stadium Sunday before the big New England Patriots game against the hated New York Jets.
The Patriots didn’t pick up an option to keep Wilfork this offseason, and the stalwart defensive tackle ended up signing a deal with the Houston Texans instead. Needless to say, based on the banner seen flying around the stadium the fans in New England aren’t happy about it.
Here is a photo of the banner, which reads “Irreplaceable,” along with an advertisement for a shop that sells “In-Vince-ible” sandwiches.
There's also a banner featuring Vince Wilfork in an ad. Says "irreplaceable" and "In-Vince-ible" sandwich pic.twitter.com/Q4voGD8kdj
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) October 25, 2015
Aside from the shameless “In-Vince-ible” sandwich plug, there is no doubt there is truth to the first portion of the banner. Without Wilfork clogging the middle for the Pats, the team’s defense has allowed 4.9 yards per carry to opposing runners, which is the third-worst mark in the NFL.
The Patriots are known for letting veterans go a year or two before they’ve reached the end of the line. It’s worked out well for the franchise, but there are some players who just cannot be replaced. Vince Wilfork is one of them.