Steve Grogan was the versatile hard-charging quarterback of the New England Patriots from his rookie season of 1975 until his retirement from the league following the 1990 season. Though he didn't start every game he lined up behind center for the majority of them. In fact in his rookie season he actually stole the starting job right out from under former Heisman Trophy winner Jim Plunkett and for the next four years (1976-79) he started every game for the Pats. In just his second season the 116th overall selection in the '75 NFL Draft out of Kansas State led the Patriots to an 11-3 record and the franchise's first playoff berth since 1963. Two years later he guided the Patriots to an 11-5 record a division title and the organization's first ever home playoff game a 31-14 loss to the Houston Oilers. That year the Patriots set the NFL's all-time single season team rushing record with 3156 yards with Grogan rushing for 539 yards and five touchdowns himself.

This lot features an incredible piece of Grogan's legacy in New England: his signed and rookie era game-worn New England Patriots helmet. Worn by the gritty signal caller during the mid-to-late 1970's (Getty 107374194 could be a match from 11/14/76 vs. Colts) when he was making his mark in Patriots' history the white Wilson F2000 model helmet (size 7 3/8" - 7 1/2") shows outstanding game use with multiple paint transfers and scuffs from on-field collisions. With its original gray face mask still intact the helmet proudly sports the Patriots' original team logo decal on either side with two red stripes flanking a center blue stripe down the middle of the shell. Groan's iconic number "14" appears in blue against the bottom of the red stripes that culminate at the rear base of the helmet. The inside padding of the helmet which certainly shows its age includes a special label that reads: "GRUV GRIP - A built-in features that prevents helmet rocking forward when blow is received on back of helmet." A warning label is also present inside the helmet touting the use of Wilson paints only since "other paints may damage shell." And finally a sticker labeled "NOC-SAE QA3 Approved" is affixed inside next to the left earhole. Both original snap-buttoned ear pads are present but the chinstrip is not. Grogan has signed the right side of the helmet in blue paint pen and added his uniform number "#14." His signature rates a 9/10 in our book. Awesome 1970's gamer helmets from star players rarely sprout in the hobby.

Includes signed LOA from Steve Grogan. Autograph pre-certified by PSA/DNA.