While Matthew Slater has hung up his cleats, he isn't leaving the New England Patriots.
On the first day of the voluntary offseason program, Slater was in attendance to welcome the players back to Gillette Stadium despite having retired shortly before. And when speaking with Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers last week, he said that he believed Slater was serving as an advisor for the team.
And one Patriots insider has now clarified exactly what Slater's role will be with the team.
According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, Slater has accepted a full-time position with New England.
“One source described his role as a ‘right-hand man’ to first-year head coach Mayo, providing Mayo a sounding board on football and team building, as well as assistance in ‘people development,’” Reiss wrote.
Him and Mayo were in the same draft class and have remained close through all the years. So it makes sense why he would want Slater to stay with the organization as he embarks on a tough first season as head coach.
And Mayo had incredible things to say about the special teamer after he announced his retirement in February.
"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 extraordinary 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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