After 11 years with the New England Patriots, Julian Edelman will not only go down in history as one of the all-time greats with fans. For those within the organization, he will be remembered as the “ultimate competitor” and “one of the greatest success stories in the history of the franchise.”
Coach Bill Belichick and team owner Robert Kraft expressed just how special Edelman was, on and off the field, in a team statement:
Bill Belichick
“By any measure of what constitutes an elite NFL career – wins, championships, production – Julian has it all. Few players can match Julian’s achievements, period, but considering his professional trajectory and longevity, the group is even more select. It is historic. This is a tribute to his legendary competitiveness, mental and physical toughness and will to excel. Day in and day out, Julian was always the same: all out. Then, in the biggest games and moments, with championships at stake, he reached even greater heights and delivered some of his best, most thrilling performances."
“For all Julian did for our team, what I may appreciate the most is he was the quintessential throwback player. He could, and did, do everything – catch, run, throw, block, return, cover and tackle – all with an edge and attitude that would not allow him to fail under any circumstance. Julian Edelman is the ultimate competitor and it was a privilege to coach him.”
Robert Kraft
“Julian Edelman is one of the great success stories in our franchise’s history. There aren’t many players who earn an NFL roster spot at a position they have never played before. Julian not only did that as a seventh-round draft selection, but he is retiring with the second-most career receptions in franchise history and as a three-time Super Bowl Champion, including his last as Super Bowl MVP."
“No one was more committed to his craft and honing his skills than Jules. His explosiveness off the line, quickness in his cuts and elusiveness after the catch made him one of the hardest players to defend throughout his career. His clutch catches in our biggest games and overall toughness made him a fan favorite."
“Over the past 12 years, I have enjoyed watching him grow as a player, as a person and as a father. In 2019, I had the privilege of traveling to Israel with Julian, which might be the only place where he is more popular than here in New England.”
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.
(PHOTO: Getty Images)