Robert Kraft, the esteemed CEO and owner of the New England Patriots turned 82 on Monday, and the wishes were pouring in from all corners. The octogenarian is deemed one of the best leaders in NFL history, known for his unwavering commitment and dedication that led the team to success. In 1994, Kraft emerged as a godsend when he purchased the Patriots, which were on the brink of a potential relocation under their former owner, James Orthwein. And, on this day, fans gathered to congratulate the legend in all ways they can.
Kraft surely has a legendary legacy, as the Patriots rose to be one of the most formidable and wealthiest franchises, with a net worth of $6 billion and six Super Bowl trophies under their belt. This is a man that should be celebrated and that’s exactly what transpired.
NFL fans flock to extend birthday wishes
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Patriots took to Twitter to extend their birthday wishes for their revered leader on Monday. The post resonated with the fans who flocked to the comments section and conveyed their birthday greetings.
“Happy birthday to the best owner in all of pro sports!!”, a fan wrote.
Happy birthday to the best owner in all of pro sports!!
— Golf fan (@TWfan19) June 5, 2023
“Legend for the Patriots Franchise the best owner in the league hands down happy birthday RKK”, another penned.
Legend for the Patriots Franchise the best owner in the league hands down happy birthday RKK
— ToxicDJ78 (@Dj78Txdx87) June 5, 2023
“Happy birthday RKK. Thanks for all you do for New England Patriots fans.”, wrote another.
Happy birthday RKK . Thanks for all you do for New England Patriots fans
— Kathy (@Momof3nana2) June 5, 2023
Another netizen was ecstatic to share the same birthday as Kraft. “I say this everytime but I’m honored to share a birthday with this guy”.
I say this everytime but I’m honored to share a birthday with this guy
— Black_Loki (@Ghost198727) June 5, 2023
“Go kraft, go pats,” another screamed.
🥳Go Kraft! GO Pats!
— Melinda (@Melinda_paints) June 5, 2023
Kraft, the Game-changer
Kraft’s role is monumental in the growth of the Patriots as a great franchise, as echoed by the birthday greetings he received. The purchase of the team by Kraft, an avid Patriots fan, amounted to $172 million, making it one of the biggest acquisitions in the league.
The move garnered mixed reactions, as many felt the decision was not so smart to spend so much money on a faltering team that had only won less than half of the games at the time since its inception in 1959.
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The following year, after Kraft took the reins, the Patriots won 10 games and advanced to the playoffs. This marked the beginning of an era highlighted by back-to-back super bowl wins in 2003 and 2004 and subsequent appearances in the championship games in 2007, 2012, and 2017. The Patriots set their indelible mark in NFL history with victories in 2014, 2016, and 2018.
Kraft has witnessed his team bagging 19 AFC East titles during his 24-year tenure. Since his takeover, Pats emerged victorious in 12 regular season games over 13 seasons.
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Watch the story: “Back Home Where He Belongs”: NFL Fans Couldnt Keep Calm After Patriots Make Tom Brady Return Announcement Official
The last super bowl win for the Pats was a while ago. However, Kraft remains optimistic about the new draft picks and the upcoming season. Maybe the next triumph might not take too long.