(PHOTO: Getty Images)
Julian Edelman’s decision to retire from the NFL on Monday has triggered an outpouring of support from fans, friends and teammates alike.
Shortly after the announcement, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and coach Bill Belichick shared their admiration for the 34-year-old via a team statement. Tom Brady was also quick to respond with words of encouragement on Instagram.
Many of Edelman’s other teammates followed suit, reflecting on past experiences and wishing him the best in the future.
Rob Gronkowski posted a video clip of himself explaining what makes his former teammate such a special player.
“Furry. Cute. Elusive. Feisty,” Gronkowski said. “Congrats on retirement to the 3x champ squirrel 🐿 Honor playing with ya, whenever a big play was needed ya always came thru, my friend. @edelman11″
Danny Amendola praised Edelman as being an incredible competitor and unbelievable friend.
“One of the most incredible professional athletes and game time competitors,” Amendola said. “In the basement, in the street or in the 4th quarter of the biggest game. No matter what we do we gotta believe. Thanks for being you Squirrel. Unbelievable career. Unbelievable friend.”
Devin McCourty thanked Edelman for helping him maintain his focus and making all of their teammates better. He also recognized him as an “amazing father.”
“I thought our run would never end,” McCourty said. “…coming in a year after you and @23patrickchung I tried to make sure I could keep up with y’all. Thanks for giving me the confidence to not care about anything other than getting the job done. You never cared about stats, or what anyone thought u cared about winning. Just being around you made ppl better cause you forced that dog to come out…keep being an amazing father…Legendary flying squirrel”
Running back James White told Edelman that he will miss being out on the field and in the locker room together.
“Gonna miss you out there on the field bro! And your freestyles in the locker room 😂 it’s been a pleasure bro!” White said.
Here are some other messages from former teammates:
Edelman posted the following video statement Monday to announce his retirement. The text on the post was short: “Foxboro Forever.”
Edelman was part of three Super Bowl teams, including the Patriots' most recent championship, which saw the 34-year-old earn MVP honors in Super Bowl LIII.