Despite officially announcing his retirement in the spring of 2021, it appears former Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman hasn’t completely ruled out a return to the NFL. Edelman was on 98.5 The Sports Hub with Scott Zolak and Hardy in Las Vegas on Saturday, and shared the specific conditions under which he’d put the pads on once again.
“The situation would have to be in New England with a New England team that’s a contender,” Edelman told Hardy and Zo. As the guys and Edelman pointed out, he made the phrase ‘Foxborough Forever’ a big part of his retirement announcement at the time. You can listen to the full conversation below.
(Click here to subscribe to Patriots Audio on 98.5 The Sports Hub.)
Edelman shared some information that backed up that claim as well. The 36-year-old said he’s heard from three teams this year about coming back. He declined to name the teams, but said he turned them all down.
If a contending Patriots team did emerge for Edelman to join, it would be quite the accomplishment for him to come back and contribute. He hasn’t played in a game since October 2020, when his season ended due to a nagging knee injury.
Ultimately though, Edelman seems happy in retirement. “I’m happy where I’m at,” he said. “I’ve sacrificed so much time with my family. I’m enjoying being a father. I’m enjoying having the relationships and blossoming the relationships that I’ve put on hold for so long. I was really in it when I was in it. My time is gone.”
Edelman wasn’t the only former Patriots No. 11 to take part in Saturday’s show. Drew Bledsoe was there as well. You can hear that interview below.
The Sports Hub’s coverage of the Patriots from Las Vegas continues Sunday, with Patriots Pregame getting underway at 1 p.m. ET. That leads up to kickoff between the Patriots and Raiders at 4:05.
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].
