Call to the Hall: Andre Tippett

www.boston.com

Linebacker Andre Tippett was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame today.  A career Patriot, Andre spent his entire 12 year NFL career in New England after being drafted in the 2nd round in 1982.  A few career highlights:

• Highest 2 season sack record (1984-1985): 35
• Franchise record: 100 career sacks
• Franchise Top 3 single season sack performances: 18.5 in 1984, 16.5 in 1985 and 12.5 in 1987
• Tippett finished either first or second on the team in sacks in each of his final 10 seasons.
• He led the team in sacks six times and finished second on the team four times
• AFC’s Linebacker of the Year by the NFL Players Association for three straight seasons from 1985–87

One of the greats on the field, Andre has been a member of the front office since retiring as a player:

Thank you, Robert Kraft. As Robert told you guys, he and I have shared so much personally and professionally. When I was contemplating retirement, he chose to keep me in the front office, and for that I'm ever grateful. He and I share a common bond of loyalty and family. I love Robert, Myra, his sons Jonathan, Danny, Josh and David. A lot of those guys I get to see every day. Robert, thank you again for believing in me. I am so proud to have been a Patriot for 26 years. I hope to be a Patriot for another 26 years.

About his former Head Coach Raymond Berry, "Tip" had this to say:

Raymond Berry, innovative player, same as a coach. He taught me the value of preparation and understanding the business is winning football games. Under Coach Berry we became the first team to take the organization to the Super Bowl. The single greatest moment of my career. Coach, thank you for everything.

Tip's closing remarks:

I am truly humbled and I'm honored to be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Congrats Tip.  You truly are one of the greats.