New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick heaped praise on Julian Edelman after the longtime Pats receiver announced his retirement from the NFL earlier this week.
Belichick, who is as reputable as any coach in terms of player development, said Edelman came ”further than most any other player that I’ve coached,” per Kevin Patra of NFL.com.
Bill Belichick says Julian Edelman’s development came ”further than most any other player that I’ve coached” from college QB to pro WR/PR
— Kevin Patra (@kpatra) April 15, 2021
Edelman's story is pretty wild.
The former Kent State product was a dual-threat quarterback in college. New England selected him in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL draft, but it would be some time before Edelman became one of Tom Brady's favorite targets.
Edelman sort of pinballed all over the field in his first few seasons with the Patriots. He started seven games in his rookie season but was sort of a non-factor in the passing game with then-Pats receiver Wes Welker holding down the slot. Instead, Edelman stuck as a special teamer and return man, even playing a bit of cornerback early on.
But Edelman would get his opportunity to be a key piece in the receiving corps. Welker signed with the Denver Broncos ahead of the 2013 campaign, allowing Edelman to move into a more consistent slot role. He thrived in said role, catching 105 passes for 1,056 yards and six touchdowns.
Edelman would go on to post three more 1,000-yard seasons. But his best contributions came in the playoffs. Edelman had 24 catches for 337 yards and a score in three Super Bowl starts, all with the Patriots. He always showed up when it mattered most.
Now, many football fans will likely be saying “What about Brady?” Well, firstly, the word “most” in Belichick's statement is important there. Secondly, it should not take away from Edelman's tremendous journey and achievements on the gridiron in a Patriots uniform.
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