Matthew Slater can't stay away from Gillette Stadium.
The newly retired former captain was already back at the facility on Monday for the start of the voluntary offseason program. So this brought up some questions of what his role with the team might be going forward.
Safety Jabrill Peppers cleared all that up when speaking with the media on Tuesday afternoon.
"It said advisor," Peppers explained about Slater's title. "I'm not really sure what that means."
However, Peppers admitted that he saw this coming all along.
“I didn’t think he was done anyway," he said. "I think this is his way to stay engaged but take the load off his body and get some more time with the family but also still be a part of the organization."
The special teamer officially announced his retirement in February, ending his career as a three-time Super Bowl champion, 10-time Pro Bowl selection, 13-time team captain, and five-time All Pro.
Jerod Mayo gave high praise to Slater following the initial announcement, commending his leadership on and off the field.
"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."
So it makes sense why Mayo would want him around the building.
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