For those disgruntled by the New England Patriots’ current challenges, there’s a sense of nostalgia from the era when Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, and Julian Edelman formed a formidable trio. While Brady opted to conclude his illustrious career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gronkowski followed suit, and Edelman remained loyal to the Patriots throughout his entire career until retiring in 2021.
Amid speculation surrounding the rationale behind his abrupt retirement, the former NFL star, recently shed light on the factors influencing his decision to step away from the game.
What caused Julian Edelman’s retirement?
Julian Edelman bid farewell to the NFL on April 12, 2021. His retirement came after the Patriots terminated his contract due to a failed physical. During a recent episode of his ‘Games with Names’ podcast, the NFL icon revealed that while he wasn’t fully prepared to hang up his cleats after the 2020 season, his extensive injury history ultimately convinced him it was time to say goodbye.
“It wasn’t hard for me because I respect the game too much. And when I was turning on the film, I wasn’t looking like me. When you turn on the film, and things that were so immediately easy, started becoming hard. So it was one of those things where it was hard and it hurt. It hurt me mentally. I didn’t start missing it until my body felt good,” he said.
Prior to his retirement, Edelman also disclosed how the Patriots’ rigorous practice regimen played a role in his decision. He expressed his belief that had he played for another team, he might have extended his career further, as reported by the Boston Globe.
In 2019, Edelman delivered one of his most exceptional seasons, achieving career-high receiving yards and securing 100 receptions for only the second time.
The anticipation for a stellar 2020 campaign was disrupted by another injury, limiting him to just six games in a season plagued by setbacks, ultimately concluding his illustrious career as the Patriots sought a new direction at the quarterback position.
Looking back at Julian Edelman’s brilliant career with Patriots
Throughout his time with the Patriots, Julian Edelman established himself as a formidable force, both in regular-season matchups and crucial playoff contests. His contribution to the team’s offensive arsenal cannot be overstated, as evidenced by his impressive stats of 620 receptions for 6,822 yards and 36 touchdowns.
Notably, his standout performance in Super Bowl LIII earned him the prestigious title of Super Bowl MVP. In addition to his Super Bowl heroics, he earned a spot on the New England Patriots All-2010s Team and the New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team.
Edelman, who once stole Brady’s game-worn cleats, achieved a franchise milestone by maintaining an average return of 15.3 yards. It ranked him second in the league, trailing only Devin Hester of the Bears. Furthermore, his remarkable achievements, including a perfect 158.3 passer rating and impressive ranking as fourth all-time in receiving yards.
Whether making clutch catches in crucial moments or inspiring his teammates with his unwavering determination, Julian Edelman’s impact on the game will be remembered.
