The NFL and the New England Patriots had a heart-warming moment planned during Thursday night’s NFL Draft to honor the victims of last week’s Boston Marathon bombings. Just before the Patriots were slated to make their pick – 29th overall – TV broadcasts aired a special tribute. Then, former Patriots guard Joe Andruzzi – who was photographed at the marathon carrying a woman to safety – was set to announce New England’s selection and present a special “Boston Strong” jersey to the draftee while “Sweet Caroline” played in the background. Only one problem: The Patriots decided to deal the 29th pick to the Minnesota Vikings for a bounty of selections. So instead of revealing a pick, Andruzzi announced the trade and had to hold on to the jersey. You can see the full video here. Give him credit. He makes a pretty seamless and classy transition into the trade announcement around the 4:43 mark. The Patriots ended up without a first-round selection and are now slated to pick next at No. 52 in Friday’s second round. Each year, Andruzzi organizes a fundraising event at the Boston Marathon and had done so last week before finding himself at the scene of the attack. The former NFL player comes from a long bloodline of heroism as his three brothers were among the first responders on the scene at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.
