Former UCLA Bruin wide receiver/special teams stud Matthew Slater has finally called an end to his NFL career. After spending 15 seasons in the NFL — all with the New England Patriots — Slater is retiring.
UCLA football congratulated Slater on his retirement with a post on X that said, "Congratulations to our own Matthew Slater on a legendary career!"
Throughout a tremendous career primarily contributing on special teams, Slater was a three-time Super Bowl champion, 10-time Pro Bowler and a five-time first team All-Pro. For his career. Slater was named to the New England Patriots All-2010s Team and the New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team.
There are few special teams players who have been as consistent and important to an NFL team the way that Slater has been for the Patriots.
Prior to his NFL career, Slater was a 2007 All-Pac-10 First Teamer with UCLA back in 2007. He also set the school's single-season record for kickoff return yards that year with 986 yards.
Beyond his achievements as a player, Slater was one of the most respected players both on and off the field. Slater was a team captain for the Patriots for the last thirteen seasons. Slater has previously won the Art Rooney Award in 2021, given to the player with the most outstanding sportsmanship on the field. He has also won the Bart Starr award in 2017, given to the player with the best character and leadership on the field and in their community.
Slater released a statement to announce his retirement, which in part expressed his gratitude to his former teammates at UCLA.
"My teammates from Servite High School, UCLA and especially here in New England: Words cannot express my gratitude for you all," Slater said via Patriots Communications. "You pushed me to the highest highs and walked with me through the lowest lows. I've often told many of you that the greatest honor I have ever had was watching you become the best versions of yourselves as men. You all did more for me than I could ever do for you. What we did on the field was special, but the bond we have off of it will last us a lifetime. You are my brothers. Thank you for everything. I love you all."
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