Bill Lenkaitis, DDS, a former offensive lineman and team dentist for the New England Patriots, passed away this past Saturday, Aug. 27. He was 70 years old.
Here are four things to know about Dr. Lenkaitis:
1. He was drafted out of Pennsylvania State University by the San Diego Chargers. He played three seasons with the Chargers, before being acquired by the Patriots.
2. He earned his dental degree from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, during the NFL off-seasons.
3. He became the Patriots' team dentist while he was still an active player, and continued in this role for a number of years after his football career.
4. Following his football career, he also managed his own dental practice in Foxborough, Mass.