New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman found a lot of success with Tom Brady under center, but he is looking forward to playing without him this season. According to Michael Giardi of NFL Network, Edelman is ultra-competitive and he is excited to prove that he can still find success without his longtime quarterback.

“I was told, and this is a direct quote: ‘Julian is Julian. He hates excuses. He hates to lose. He’s already got the red-ass about this season, people thinking we’re no good and that he’s just a product of Brady.'”

According to Giardi, even though Brady is gone, the Patriots are still a team that believes they can compete for a Super Bowl. Even though their future Hall of Fame quarterback isn't involved, there are a lot of players, including Edelman, who want to prove just how good of a team they are. Added Giardi:

“He is really determined to prove to everyone, and I think a lot of players on this team are [saying] ‘Just because Tom Brady’s not here, doesn’t mean we’re not any good. In fact, we’ve won Super Bowls and you’re telling me it was about Tom, we’re telling you it was about a lot more than Tom.'”

Edelman wants to prove a point, but he is still going to need a good quarterback to help him do so. Jarrett Stidham is expected to be the Patriots starting quarterback for the 2020 season. If Edelman wants to have a big season, he still needs the first-year starter to be good.