Julian Edelman
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| Julian Edelman | |
|---|---|
| Name | Julian Edelman |
| Caption | Edelman with the New England Patriots in 2019 |
| Number | 11 |
| Position | Wide receiver / Return specialist |
| Birth date | 22 May 1986 |
| Birth place | Redwood City, California |
| Height in | 10 |
| Weight lb | 198 |
| High school | Woodside High School |
| College | College of San Mateo (2005–2006), Kent State University (2007–2008) |
| Draft year | 2009 |
| Draft pick | 232 |
| Draft team | New England Patriots |
| Career span | 2009–2020 |
| Team | New England Patriots (2009–2020) |
| Highlights | * 3× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LIII) * Super Bowl MVP (LIII) * Patriots Hall of Fame (2024) * Patriots All-2000s Team * Patriots All-2010s Team |
Julian Edelman is a former American football wide receiver who spent his entire 12-year National Football League career with the New England Patriots. A seventh-round draft pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, he evolved from a college quarterback into one of the most prolific and clutch postseason receivers in NFL history. He is a three-time Super Bowl champion and was named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl LIII. Edelman's career is defined by his exceptional toughness, versatility, and pivotal performances in critical moments for the Bill Belichick-coached New England Patriots dynasty.
Early life and college career
Born in Redwood City, California, he attended Woodside High School where he played quarterback. After graduating, he first played at the College of San Mateo, a junior college, before transferring to Kent State University. At Kent State, he played quarterback for the Golden Flashes, setting a single-season school record for total offensive yards. His athletic versatility was evident, as he also returned punts and even played on the basketball team. Despite his production, his size and unconventional background led to his selection in the final round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots.
NFL career
Initially utilized as a punt returner and occasional receiver, he made an immediate impact by returning a punt for a touchdown in his rookie season. His role expanded over time under coaches Bill Belichick and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, particularly after the departure of star receiver Wes Welker. He became the primary slot receiver for quarterback Tom Brady, forming one of the most trusted connections in the league. His career highlights are deeply intertwined with the NFL playoffs, where he ranks second all-time in postseason receptions and receiving yards. Key performances include a miraculous catch in Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons and a 10-catch, 141-yard effort to earn MVP honors in Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams. Persistent knee injuries led to his retirement after the 2020 NFL season.
Playing style and legacy
Renowned for his exceptional quickness, toughness, and route-running precision, particularly from the slot position, he embodied a blue-collar playing style. His background as a quarterback gave him a unique understanding of offensive schemes and improvisation, often extending plays with Tom Brady. He is celebrated for his "clutch gene," delivering his best performances in the most critical games, a trait that cemented his legacy alongside postseason greats. While his regular-season statistics are solid, his historic playoff production—surpassed only by Jerry Rice—ensures his place in NFL lore. In 2024, he was inducted into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame.
Off-field ventures and media career
Following his retirement, he has pursued a successful career in media and business. He co-hosts the sports podcast "Games with Names" with former NFL player Martellus Bennett and appears as an analyst on Fox NFL Kickoff and other Fox Sports programming. He launched a production company, Coast Productions, and has been involved in several acting and hosting roles, including a stint on Showtime's "Inside the NFL." His business ventures also include partnerships with brands like Ghostbed and Therabody, and he remains a prominent figure in the Boston sports community.
Personal life
He is the son of Frank Edelman, who worked in the automotive industry. He has a daughter born in 2016. Known for his intense workout regimen and dedication to fitness, he has authored a book titled *Relentless: A Memoir*. He maintains a high profile in the New England area and is involved in various charitable activities, including his "Julian Edelman Foundation" which supports underserved children. His friendships with former teammates like Tom Brady and his status as a fan favorite in Boston remain central to his public persona.
Category:1986 births Category:American football wide receivers Category:Kent State Golden Eagles football players Category:New England Patriots players Category:Super Bowl Most Valuable Player Award winners