Monday marked the first day of the New England Patriots' offseason program, and it also is the start of Jerod Mayo's tenure as head coach.
So, as he welcomed all the players, Mayo also brought in a familiar face to Gillette Stadium.
According to ESPN's Mike Reiss , former captain Matthew Slater was in Foxborough to greet the players on the first day of the voluntary offseason program. He just couldn't stay away despite having retired following 16 seasons with the Patriots.
Slater has always been a leader in the locker room, so it will be interesting to see if he has a role on the staff.
The special teamer retired as a three-time Super Bowl champion, 10-time Pro Bowl selection, 13-time team captain, and five-time All Pro.
Many people reacted to Slater's announcement, celebrating his incredible career. And among them was the new head coach. Mayo and Slater entered the league together so it's no surprise that they developed a very close bond.
Here is what Mayo said after Slater's retirement announcement:
"Matthew Slater - my friend, former captain, three-time Super Bowl Champion, five-time first-team All-Pro and 10-time Pro-Bowler - is an all-time great. He is an incredible human begin and an extrodinary father, husband, son, friend, and teammate, to name just a few of the many key roles he plays for countless people who have been fortunate enough to be graced by his presence. Matthew and his lovely family, including his wife Shahrzad, and beautiful children, Jeremiah, Hannah, Noah, and Micah, are led by faith and commitment, example, and action.
Matthew and I entered the NFL together in 2008, and I was fortunate to play my entire career with him. Matthew's leadership, attitude, intelligence and dedication created a professional football career that will most definitely earn him enshrinement in both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Patriots Hall of Fame.
Matthew is a winner in football, but his accomplishment far exceed the field. He is a winner in life. I know that Matthew will continue to make profound impact on so many in his community, both personally and professionally.
Matthew is my dear friend for life. I thank him for the man he is and wish him the very best in all future endeavors. I know he will be great at whatever he chooses to do next."
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