Julian Edelman files $50M lawsuit against former best friend

Julian Edelman (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

Julian Edelman files $50M lawsuit against former best friend — and it's getting ugly

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated May 6, 2026 4:54 PM ET

Julian Edelman’s battles didn’t end the day he retired from the NFL. The New England Patriots icon is dealing with a situation that could have been avoided.

Edelman spent years helping a Boston ad agency build its portfolio and reputation, bringing in clients and attending multiple events, as his business partner allegedly made it clear they were building it together.

However, when the company was sold for $50 million in 2025, Edelman didn’t receive any proceeds. In fact, he didn’t learn about the company sale until later.

Now, he’s suing that friend for $50 million.

Julian Edelman sues former best friend

Julian Edelman. Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

On April 17, 2026, Julian Edelman filed a civil complaint in Suffolk County Superior Court against Assaf Swissa. Swissa founded the Boston-based digital advertising agency Superdigital LLC. Edelman alleges his former partner cut him out of the sale and kept the money.

The lawsuit alleges that Swissa referred to Edelman as his partner.

“When Swissa decided to capitalize on the value he grew on Edelman’s back,” the lawsuit says, via NBC Boston 10. “He cut Edelman out from the proceeds entirely.”

The three-time Super Bowl champion didn’t receive a heads-up about the sale. He confronted Swissa, leading to this alleged exchange:

"Edelman: 'I’ve gone to bat for you for years; I helped you build that company and got you a lot of your deals; you couldn’t pay me anything?'

"Swissa: 'We’re best friends and shouldn’t say things right now while we’re emotional. We’ll revisit this at the appropriate time.'”

Edelman is seeking damages and a percentage of the proceeds from the sale of Superdigital.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: