Dan Connolly was perceived to be on the New England Patriots’ roster bubble this offseason because of a hefty $4 million salary, but not only will the veteran offensive lineman stick around, he has been named one of the team’s captains.
Connolly, quarterback Tom Brady, linebacker Jerod Mayo, defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, safety Devin McCourty and special-teamer Matthew Slater were named captains for the 2014 season, the Patriots announced Wednesday. Connolly is the only new name added to that list. He replaces the recently traded Logan Mankins, who had been a captain since 2011.
“Dan’s had a really good year,” Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said at Gillette Stadium on Wednesday. “He had a real good spring, good training camp, been out there everyday. He’s been a versatile guy, as he always has. He’s always been able to play all three spots as well as the kicking game. He’s a sharp guy, works hard and had a good offseason. He was able to train all offseason. He’s done a solid job for us at really a number of positions.”
Connolly could start at either left guard, right guard or center for the Patriots this season.
