The New England Patriots have a habit of paying tribute to the team's All Time Greats whenever they leave the team.
When linebacker Tedy Bruschi retired prior to the 2009 season, the Patriots didn't assign his number again until veteran guard Brian Waters wore #54 in 2011.
When offensive tackle Matt Light retried before the 2012 season, the Patriots withheld his number from circulation. Defensive tackle Joe Vellano wore #72 in 2013.
When offensive guard Logan Mankins was traded in 2014, the Patriots didn't give his uniform to another player that season.