Aiken took the added responsibility as an entirely different sign: a sign of trust.
“It comes down to trust, you know?’’ said Aiken, who is in his second year with the Patriots after signing as an unrestricted free agent March 3, 2008. “If Brady, if Tom can trust me to get open and be at a certain depth, it comes down to trust.’’
Considering that he led Patriot receivers with seven receptions for 90 yards against the Saints, both career highs, Aiken clearly earned that trust.
Brady targeted Aiken 10 times, as the Saints bracketed primary options Randy Moss and Wes Welker in the 38-17 loss.
“You talk about when guys try to really cover Randy and Wes, and what are you going to do? Who are you going to get the ball to?’’ Brady said. “I think Sam is emerging as that player that, when you’re really not focused on him, he’s able to make some plays.’’
Aiken demonstrated that playmaking ability in the college ranks at North Carolina, winding up with 146 receptions for 2,205 yards and 15 touchdowns. He earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference second-team honors and was the Tar Heels’ offensive MVP as a senior.
“The way Sam works off the football field is amazing,’’ marveled running back Kevin Faulk. “The way he works out in the weight room, the way he conditions, you knew it was a matter of time for him to get his opportunity and prove that he can compete at the receiver position.’’
In five seasons with the Bills, Aiken made 19 catches for 250 yards, with 148 coming on 11 catches in his second season in Buffalo, 2004. Last season, his first in Foxborough, Aiken made eight receptions for 101 yards. He nearly matched that total with his performance against the Saints, which was highlighted by a 33-yard catch on third and 12 in the second quarter.
“We took some other shots with him and there were some opportunities there,’’ Brady said. “That Tampa game [in London Oct. 25] where he made that catch-and-run - that was a great play by him.’’
It was an eventful one at that. Aiken scored the first touchdown of his career on foreign soil, a 54-yard pass from Brady in the Patriots’ 35-7 romp over the Buccaneers at Wembley Stadium.
