Patriots owner Robert Kraft and head coach Bill Belichick each released statements on Julian Edelman Monday, after the former Pats wide receiver announced his retirement on Twitter.
“Julian Edelman is one of the great success stories in our franchise’s history,” Kraft’s statement begins. “There aren’t many players who earn an NFL roster spot at a position they have never played before. Julian not only did that as a seventh-round draft selection, but he is retiring with the second-most career receptions in franchise history and as a three-time Super Bowl champion, including his last as Super Bowl MVP.”
Belichick was similarly and expectedly effusive in his praise for Edelman and his accomplishments over the course of his 11 seasons, all of which were spent in New England.
“By any measure of what constitutes an elite NFL career – wins, championships, production – Julian has it all,” Belichick’s statement reads. “Few players can match Julian’s achievements, period, but considering his professional trajectory and longevity, the group is even more select. It is historic. … Julian Edelman is the ultimate competitor and it was a privilege to coach him.”
Edelman trails only Wes Welker in career receptions for the Patriots, with 620 catches to Welker’s 672. It’s a little closer when you add playoff receptions: Welker 760, Edelman 738. But Edelman’s total playoff resume, of course, wipes the floor with Welker and most other Patriots receivers.
Clearly, Edelman will get fitted for a red jacket for his induction into the Hall at Patriot Place as soon as he’s eligible.
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