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AMC Armond Armstead Retires a Patriot!

Though he never played a down for the Patriots, we had high expectations for this young man.

USA Today Sports

Former USC and CFL defensive lineman and Patriots AMC (Athletic Mythical Creature) announced his retirementfrom the Patriots today.  Coach Belichick said:

"It has been a pleasure being around Armond, as he gave everything he could to play for us. Armond worked extremely hard since joining us last February. He's had a lot of adversity personally that he's had to deal with – unusual compared to most other players – but he's always had a great attitude, worked hard and really did everything we asked him to do. While it is unfortunate he will not be able to play football, Armond is an outstanding young man who has a very bright future in whatever path he chooses."

Armstead played college football for USC, and had a promising NFL future until he had a heart attack allegedly from taking Toradol prescribed by the USC team doctor.  Armond Armstead is currently suing the university. When he found no NFL suitors, Armstead signed with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League.  Per Wikipedia:

In 2012, Armstead was signed by the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League. In his rookie CFL season, Armstead compiled 43 defensive tackles, 2 special teams tackles, and 6 quarterback sacks. He was also named as a CFL All-star, and went on to win the 100th Grey Cup with the Argonauts that season. On January 4, 2013, Armstead was released by the Argonauts per request in order to pursue an NFL career.

He signed with the Patriots on January 22, 2013 and was a promising athletic player that unfortunately was never healthy enough to see the field.  I'll always remember him for all of those sacks I hoped he get on Peyton Manning.  As with all Athletic Mythical Creatures, there are fan hopes created whenever an athletic marvel is brought within the walls of Gillette stadium.  Alas, some of them don't pan out.

Best of luck and health to Armond Armstead.  At least he didn't end up a Bronco.