The NFL is a business before anything, and many players from the New England Patriots learn this the hard way.
Although relationships are built and loyalty forms with individuals in every organization — the business side will typically outweigh it all. Chris Hogan learned this after his three-year stint with the Patriots. He was released and eventually signed by the Carolina Panthers.
He had a Q&A session with fans on Twitter, and one fan asked why he left New England — his answer was simple.
The Patriots moved on and the seven-year veteran had no other choice but to sign with another team and continue his career. Hogan was an excellent role player in the Patriots’ offense and he offered a deep threat that they didn’t have when he joined the team. He was able to reel in 107 receptions, 1,651 yards and 12 touchdowns in three seasons — with an average of 15.4 yards per catch.
Essentially, his role was to create separation and stretch the field, so that the slot receivers and tight ends could terrorize the middle of the field. He did that, but the Patriots brought on some other deep threats in N’Keal Harry and Demaryius Thomas to keep that threat alive.
Hogan was a huge reason that the Patriots made it to three Super Bowls and won two of them. His AFC Championship game against the Pittsburgh Steelers was unreal — when he brought in nine receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns.
But, business is business, and Hogan will have a new opportunity to showcase his talent and enjoy his time with the Panthers.
.jpg?w=600)
