Pats' Edelman unsure he'll be healthy enough to play in 2021?

Sep 27, 2020; New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman (11) reacts during the first half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Gillette Stadium. Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots WR Julian Edelman not sure he'll be healthy enough to play in 2021?

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 2/26/21

After playing just six games during the 2020 season, New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman underwent knee surgery and could not return for the remainder of the year.

Now it sounds like the 34-year-old, who will turn 35 in May, isn't sure whether he'll be healthy enough to return to the field in 2021, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

"(Edelman is) still trying to work his way back from a knee injury that drastically shortened his 2020 season," Rapoport said. "My understanding is he does want to play in 2021. That's not the important thing. The important thing is: Is his knee going to be healthy enough to play? He is still rehabbing. He is still recovering. Still trying to see if he is healthy enough to be out there for the 2021 season. No decision made yet on which way that is going to go."

From NFL Now: The #Patriots are getting the band back together, with key opt-outs opting back in... Meanwhile, it's far more uncertain for WR Julian Edelman. pic.twitter.com/Uu2dXjTznU
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 26, 2021

Edelman was struggling with the knee injury before undergoing surgery. He tried to manage the injury during training camp and during the season, but couldn't continue playing through it.

During an appearance on the "Pardon My Take" podcast last month, the three-time Super Bowl champion could not provide clarity on his 2021 status, saying he was taking the time this offseason to self-reflect.

Edelman is under contract for just one more season and will become a free agent in 2022.

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