Earlier on Monday, the New England Patriots released longtime wide receiver Julian Edelman after 11 seasons. This move came after the former Super Bowl MVP played in just six games a season ago due to a knee injury. It was also expected that he’d miss some time in 2021.
Well, that all changed on a dime late Monday afternoon when Edelman announced that he is retiring from the NFL.
Foxboro Forever pic.twitter.com/x3SDDPJoTX
— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) April 12, 2021
A three-time Super Bowl winner, Edelman ranks second in Patriots history in receptions (620), fourth in receiving yards (6,822) and ninth in touchdown receptions (36).
A quarterback in college at Kent State, Edelman was drafted in the seventh round (232nd overall) by New England in 2009 and wound up playing in 137 regular-season games and 19 postseason games.
Edelman was the MVP of Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams en route to helping New England to the third title of his career. He caught 10 passes for 141 yards in that game. As a result, Edelman’s retirement has some up in their feels.
This is perfect. https://t.co/Zmn48KIIhR
— Marc Bertrand (@Marc_Bertrand) April 12, 2021
Remember the 1st Kick Return against the Eagles in preseason & getting a call shortly after on potential to do some work with you. Long way from there. You are a WARRIOR @Edelman11! #LFG #FoxboroForever https://t.co/lkimeOwKgo
— Jason Howarth (@sportsmktgguy) April 12, 2021
Wow. All the tears. Thank you, Jules! We absolutely love you https://t.co/lHIxVwePjQ
— Ashley Alexiss (@AshAlexiss) April 12, 2021
Legend. Thank you, Jules. pic.twitter.com/Sdc59Wx0xk
— yeah Vovo szn (@Wanamakergoat) April 12, 2021
— Boston Strong (@BostonStrong_34) April 12, 2021
By having his contract terminated for a failed physical today, former Patriots' WR Julian Edelman now becomes eligible for injury protection benefit, per the CBA, available to all players in this situation. Edelman can collect up to $2 million through this benefit.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 12, 2021
Julian Edelman has officially retired from the NFL.
— PFF (@PFF) April 12, 2021
Edelman: 88.2 career PFF Grade (35th)
pic.twitter.com/FA1Yxe7wYK
There will be no more football for Edelman, according to a source. The release was not a surprise. Nor was it something Edelman was against. Realized body had nothing more to give and wasn’t going to be able to be who he’d been.
— Tom E. Curran (@tomecurran) April 12, 2021
620 catches.
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) April 12, 2021
8,822 receiving yards.
3x Super Bowl Champion.
Julian Edelman has retired from the NFL, leaving behind one hell of a story. pic.twitter.com/1APAgoNBps
(Field Level Media contributed to this story)
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