Established
1960
City
Boston
League History
1970 - Present / National Football League
1960 - 1970 / American Football League
Team History
1971 - Present / New England Patriots
1960 - 1970 / Boston Patriots
Nickname
Patriots - The Boston Patriots have a long and storied history in the NFL. As one of the original teams to join the league, they have become synonymous with New England football and their loyal fan base. But did you know that their team name has an interesting origin story?
Boston Patriots Origin
It all started when Billy Sullivan, Jr., owner of The Boston Patriot newspaper, purchased a franchise in 1959 for $25,000 from George Preston Marshall’s Washington Redskins organization. Sullivan wanted to honor his father's paper by naming his new team after it - hence why he chose “Patriots” as opposed to any other potential names such as “Bombers” or “Pilots."
Seventy-four fans suggested Patriots in the name-the-team contest conducted by the management group of Boston’s original AFL franchise in 1960. Initially located in Boston, it was named the Patriots because of the area’s heritage as the birthplace of the American Revolution.
Before the 1960 season began, however, there was still debate over what logo should be used on helmets (as well as uniforms). After much deliberation between several designs, including Native American headdresses & tomahawk symbols or even an American Revolutionary War minuteman image, it was ultimately decided that a tricorne hat would be chosen instead due to its historical significance within Massachusetts' culture at the period. This decision also helped create a further distinction between Patriots & Redskins, who had similar logos before this point.
While some may not think twice about where this iconic nickname comes from - sports fans everywhere should take a moment to recognize the unique origin behind their beloved NFL team: The Boston Patriots!
Championship
Super Bowl 0
2019, 2017, 2015, 2005, 2004, 2002
AFL Championship 0
Stadium
2003 - Present / Gillette Stadium
2002 / CMGI Field
1990 - 2001 / Foxboro Stadium
1983 - 1989 / Sullivan Stadium
1971 - 1982 / Schaefer Stadium
1970 / Harvard Stadium
1969 / Alumni Stadium
1963 - 1968 / Fenway Park
1960 - 1962 / Nickerson Field
Owner
1994 - Present / Robert Kraft
1992 - 1994 / James Orthwein
1987 - 1992 / Victor Kiam
1960 - 1987 / Billy Sullivan
- 1960
- 1970
-
Boston Patriots Team Formation
Boston business executive Billy Sullivan was awarded the eighth and final franchise of the developing American Football League (AFL) on November 16, 1959. The following winter, locals submitted thousands of ideas for the Boston football team’s official name. Sullivan chose “Boston Patriots,” which was suggested by 74 fans, among them Larry Kepnes. Immediately thereafter, artist Phil Bissell developed the “Pat ... -
NFL and AFL Merge
When the NFL and AFL merged in 1970, the Patriots were placed in the American Football Conference East (AFC East) division, where they still play today. The following year, the Patriots moved to a new stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, which would serve as their home for the next 30 years. As a result of the move, they announced they would ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Boston Patriots History
The Boston Patriots history began in 1960 when the team joined the American Football League (AFL). As one of the original eight AFL members, they quickly built a strong identity. Playing in Boston, Massachusetts, the Patriots developed a loyal fan base that stayed with the franchise throughout its early years.
During the 1960s, the Boston Patriots football franchise made its mark by winning three division titles. They also appeared twice in the AFL Championship Game, though they fell short in both attempts. Despite these losses, the team’s resilience shaped their future path. Their competitive spirit kept them at the heart of AFL action.
In 1971, the franchise officially transitioned to the NFL and became the New England Patriots. This marked a new chapter in the Boston Patriots history, as the team gained recognition on a bigger stage. The name change reflected the broader New England region, while the franchise’s identity continued to evolve in the league.
Over the years, many talented players left a mark on Boston Patriots football. Babe Parilli shined with 25 touchdown passes in 1962, while Mike Haynes became one of the league’s top cornerbacks. Jim Nance also stood out, rushing for more than 5,400 yards and 56 touchdowns. Their contributions laid the foundation for future Patriots success.
Boston Patriots Achievements
Achievements are a vital part of the Boston Patriots history. The team won three AFL Eastern Division titles before joining the NFL. These accomplishments gave the franchise credibility and proved their ability to compete with top teams of the era. Their early victories remain an important part of the team’s legacy.
While later success came under the New England Patriots name, the roots of greatness began with the Boston Patriots football era. Their achievements, combined with legendary players, helped shape one of the most successful dynasties in NFL history. The Boston years remain a cornerstone of the Patriots’ long and celebrated journey.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
20 / Gino Cappelletti
40 / Mike Haynes
57 / Steve Nelson
73 / John Hannah
78 / Bruce Armstrong
79 / Jim Lee Hunt
89 / Bob Dee
*Blue is this team’s history