An All-American for the Washington State Cougars and former #1 overall draft pick in the 1993 NFL Draft, Bledsoe was perceived to be the face of the New England Patriots franchise during the 1990s and early 2000s.

In his second season with the Patriots, Bledsoe set an NFL record pass attempts (691), became the second NFL quarterback to complete 400 or more passes in a season (400), and led the NFL in passing yards (4555). Bledsoe guided the Patriots to Super Bowl XXXI during the 1996 season.

Later in his career, Bledsoe proved  to be an integral member to his team's playoff run when he replaced a hobbled Brady in the AFC Championship Game against Pittsburgh. The victory over Pittsburgh allowed New England to reach Super Bowl XXXVI and defeat the St. Louis Rams.

When Bledsoe retired in April 2007, he left fifth in NFL history in pass attempts (6,717) and completions (3,839), seventh in passing yards (44,611), and 13th in touchdown passes (251).

Since his retirement in 2007, Bledsoe has opened a vineyard, the Flying B Vineyard outside Walla Walla, Washington and owns a coffee roasting company as well. He also works with many philanthropic organizations.