Former New England Patriots WR David Patten dies at 47

Former New England Patriots wide receiver David Patten died Thursday at the age of 47.

The cause of death was a motorcycle accident, according to The State newspaper. The accident occurred in Richland County, South Carolina. 

The South Carolina Highway Patrol told The State that Patten's motorcycle drove into the opposing lane and hit a sedan.

Patten played 12 seasons in the NFL and was originally picked up by the New York Giants during the 1997 season after going undrafted out of Western Carolina. He made his biggest impact with Patriots, catching Tom Brady's first postseason touchdown in the Super Bowl 36 victory over the St. Louis Rams. 

Patten was a multi-dimensional threat — catching, running and throwing a touchdown in a 2001 game against the Indianapolis Colts. He also was part of the Patriots' victories in Super Bowls 38 and 39.

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Patten also played for the Washington Football Team, New Orleans Saints and the Cleveland Browns.

He finished his career in 2010, catching 324 passes for 4,715 yards and 24 touchdowns.