Some, such as Jim Plunkett (No. 1 in 1970) and Irving Fryar (No. 1 in 1984) enjoyed their best seasons after leaving New England. Others remained Patriots throughout their entire careers.

Jim Plunkett, playing for Stanford ... An outstanding rookie year in the NFL with the New England Patriots preceded numerous injuries and a drift to the ranks of the ordinary.

Jim Plunkett wasn't far behind with 61 starts but unfortunately for the Patriots, Plunkett became a star after he left New ...