After an outstanding college career that got him All-American honors at the University of Iowa he was taken by New England in the 2nd round of the 1982 college draft.
Was the starting left outside-linebacker by 1983. Led the team with 8½ sacks that season. Led the Patriots in sacks 6 of 12 seasons he played. Is still the Patriots franchise All-Time leading sack leader with 100 sacks.
A 5-time Pro Bowler he was selected as 1st team All-Pro in 1985 & 1987. Named Defensive Player of the Week twice. Indicted into the Hall of Fame in 2008.