The Patriots have issued a statement from Wes Welker on the passing of Mosi Tatupu. (Welker was the recipient of the 2003 Mosi Tatupu Award, presented annually to the College Football Special Teams Player of the Year.)

“Mosi Tatupu was one of the first truly great special teams players. He set the stage for a lot of us to follow. It was an honor to win a special teams award in his name back in 2003 and then have the opportunity to meet him here in New England. As a Patriot, I have learned even more about the impact that Mosi had on this franchise and in this community. He will be sadly missed. My heart goes out to his family.”