Former New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman has officially retired from the NFL and the game of football.

In a video posted on social media, an emotional-looking Edelman announced his retirement, noting that the wheels have come off after his injury last year.

“Nothing in my career has ever come easy, and no surprise, this isn't gonna be easy either. Now, how about we said I'm gonna go until the wheels come off … and they've finally fallen off,” Edelman started in the video.

“Due to an injury last year, I'll be making my official announcement from my retirement from football. It was a hard decision, but the right decision for me and my family. I'm honored and so proud to be retiring a Patriot.”

Edelman then went on to thank team owner Robert Kraft, head coach Bill Belichick, his teammates and the whole Patriots organization.

For what it's worth, the announcement came after the Patriots terminated his contract, citing a failed physical. This then sparked speculations that it is a precursor to a retirement announcement–which proved to be spot on.

While the announcement may have come a surprise for some, considering that Julian Edelman is only 34 years old and certainly has a few more good years left in the tank, it is certainly not without a reason. After all, he played just six games in 2020 due to injuries.

Coming in as a seventh round pick by the Patriots in 2009, Edelman retires as a three-time Super Bowl champion and one-time Super Bowl MVP. In 11 seasons with New England, he accumulated 6822 receiving yards and 36 touchdowns in what is truly a remarkable career.

Thank you, Julian!