Patriots legend Edelman retires after failed physical
LOS ANGELES: New England Patriots star Julian Edelman announced his retirement from the NFL on Monday, bringing the curtain down on a career that spanned 12 seasons and included three Super Bowl victories.
The 34-year-old receiver, named MVP in the Patriots most recent Super Bowl victory in 2019, confirmed his retirement after his contract was terminated due to a failed physical.
“I’ve always said I’m going until the wheels come off, and they’ve finally fallen off,” Edelman said in a recorded video posted on Twitter.
“Due to an injury last year, I’ll be making my official announcement of my retirement from football. It’s been the best 12 years of my life. It’s been a hell of a run.”
Edelman’s former Patriots teammate and close friend Tom Brady led the tributes to the retiring receiver.
“On the biggest stage and in the biggest moments, you always came through,” the seven-time Super Bowl champion wrote on Twitter.
“You never lost that chip on your shoulder and you never let anyone define you as a person or player. I’m proud of you, Jules. Love you.”
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick saluted Edelman as the “ultimate competitor.”
“By any measure of what constitutes
an elite NFL career — wins, championships, production — Julian has it all,” Belichick said.
“Few players can match Julian’s achievements, period, but considering his professional trajectory and longevity, the group is even more select.
“This is a tribute to his legendary competitiveness, mental and physical toughness and will to excel.”
The Patriots drafted Edelman in 2009 with the 232nd overall pick.
He won Super Bowls in 2015, 2017 and 2019.