The New England Patriots are officially 53 days away from their 2023 regular season opener. That means we’re continuing our ongoing countdown series by listing every Patriots player that has ever worn a No. 53 jersey.
The last player to wear the numbers was Josh Uche in his 2020 rookie season. He obviously came into the league with big shoes to fill as a linebacker wearing the same number as former Patriot and two-time Super Bowl champion Kyle Van Noy.
Former three-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro linebacker Larry Izzo also wore the No. 53. when helping kick-start the Patriots’ dynasty by appearing on the franchise’s first three Super Bowl teams.
Here’s every Patriots player that has worn the number throughout franchise history (via Pro Football Reference):
LB Josh Uche: 2020
LB Kyle Van Noy: 2016-2021
LB Darius Fleming: 2015
LB Eric Martin: 2015
LB Dekoda Watson: 2015
LB Ja'Gared Davis: 2013-2014
LB Jeff Tarpinian: 2011-2012
LB Pierre Woods: 2010
LB Larry Izzo: 2001-2008
LB Chris Slade: 1993-2000
LB Richard Tardits: 1990-1992
LB Thomas Benson: 1988
LB Clayton Weishuhn: 1982-1986
LB Bill Matthews: 1979-1981
LB Merv Krakau: 1978
LB Jim Romaniszyn: 1976
LB John Tanner: 1973-1974
LB Dennis Coleman: 1971
LB Fred Whittingham: 1970
LB Tom Addison: 1960-1967
