Patriots Name Six 2023 Team Captains
FOXBORO — The New England Patriots have announced their team captains for this season.
The Patriots’ players voted quarterback Mac Jones, defensive lineman Deatrich Wise Jr., special teamer Matthew Slater, center David Andrews, linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley and tight end Hunter Henry as the team’s on-field and locker room leaders for the upcoming season.
The selections were confirmed by a team-sponsored social media post prior to the team’s third and final practice in preparation for their Week 1 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles — a game in which legendary Pats quarterback and 18-time team captain Tom Brady will be honored with “special” ceremonies both pregame and at halftime.
Slater, Bentley, Andrews, Wise and Jones were also named as team captains for 2022 — Wise and Jones for the second time and Bentley for his third. Slater earned the distinction for the 13th time in their respective careers, while Andrews earned the honor for the seventh time in his Patriots’ tenure. Henry was the only first-timer among the selections.
Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Coach Bill Belichick has often praised the democratic manner in which Patriots team captains selections are made. In fact, the 71-year old recently spoke about the unique skill set required to become a Pats captain.
“Everybody on the team contributes to leadership in one way or another. Some more vocal than others but that doesn’t take away from guys who set a strong work ethic and example that aren’t necessarily vocal,” Belichick said. The cross-section of players elected to hold title for that given year reflects both vocal leaders and those who quietly set the example.”
The Patriots will kick off the 2023 regular season against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET from Gillette Stadium.
