QUINCY -- Longtime Patriots running back Kevin Faulk played in the fourth-annual golf tournament to benefit the Joe Andruzzi Foundation on Monday, which presented the opportunity to catch up with him about his future.

Faulk reiterated what he's said all offseason -- if he plays in 2012, it will be for the Patriots or no one.

"Just waiting, being patient," he said, adding that he understands the Patriots' approach from his tenure with the team.

At the same time, Faulk acknowledged the situation can be frustrating because he'd like to play in 2012.

"Of course, I'm human, but at the same time you keep your trust in God and you understand what goes on, you understand the business, and you move on," he said.

Faulk said he's been fortunate in recent years to prepare himself if his playing career is indeed over.

"It's just one of those things that happens -- your career comes to an end at some point," he said, adding that he will be around football in some form in his post-playing career.