Vince Wilfork: "I'll be back"

Vince Wilfork spoke to the press for the first time since tearing his Achilles back in September yesterday, and he had some reassuring words for those concerned about the 32 year old's ability to come back from such a devastating injury.

"I’ll be back. There’s no question in my mind. That’s not even a question. People can worry about it. But not me. I’ll be back."

Big Vince was at the Patriot Place Bass Pro Shop as part of a charity event in conjunction with his foundation, the Patriots Charitable Foundation and Pats Alumni club. He said he's been making strides daily in his rehab and hopes to get out of his walking boot in about a week.

"It’s always frustrating. The only thing I do, the only thing I know how to do is play football. And I can’t do it right now. But things happen for a reason. The only thing I can do is prepare each day and try and get better with the rehab, and that’s what I’ve been doing. Take it day by day and hopefully, I’ll get healthy soon."

Achilles injuries are notoriously difficult to come back from, and Vince's listed playing weight of 325 pounds certainly won't make it any easier for the nose tackle to try to reclaim his agility. Wilfork has always had uncanny quickness for a man his size, but it's likely that that quickness could be diminished, at least in his first year coming back from the injury.

However, Vince has always been a dedicated athlete who is well-conditioned beyond his appearance. Don't believe me? Look at his snap counts the past few years. For a 325 pound defensive tackle to rarely come off the field is nothing short of incredible. There should be little doubt that this guy will put the time and effort in necessary to come back as close to his former self as possible.

Furthermore, even if Vince does lose some of his quickness, his strength alone should be enough to allow him to remain a productive player against the run. We've certainly seen the impact his loss has had on the run defense this season.

As for this season? Vince says he's been doing whatever he can to help the team, even from the sidelines.

"Whatever they see fit for what I can do, that’s what I try to do to help. If it’s me coming around to see the guys, or having the guys talk with me, or if it’s watching film with the guys, that’s what I’ll do. I’m still part of (the team). Sometimes I feel like I’m not because I’m not out there with them, but I’ll stay a part of them. I want these guys to feel the same about me."

Best of luck, Vince. Here's hoping you and your teammates get a much deserved run of health next year.