Coates voted into Pats Hall

The Patriots announced today that former tight end Ben Coates will become the 13th inductee into the team's Hall of Fame.

Coates won the online fan voting at Patriots.com to receive the honor. He was one of three finalists, beating out running back Jim Nance and offensive lineman Jon Morris. Coates will be among the first players to be enshrined in the The Hall at Patriot Place, the team's interactive homage to its history that opens in September.

Coates spent nine seasons in a New England uniform (1991-99) and was a five-time Pro Bowl selection. He ranks second on the team's all-time touchdown list with 50 and third in receptions with 490. His 5,471 receiving yards are the fourth-highest total in team history. All of those totals are tops among Patriots tight ends.

From 1994 to 1998, Coates led all tight ends in receptions (375) and touchdown receptions (36) and was second in receiving yards (4,151). He still holds the Patriots' record for most consecutive games with a reception (63), which he set from 1992-96.

“I feel great about it. It feels great to have the fans make the choice,” said Coates of his selection. “The other nominees were great competitors and I am honored to be the inductee. I guess it was my time, and what better time to be inducted than the year the team is opening The Hall at Patriot Place.”