It was a rough ending to Julian Edelman’s career in the NFL as he had to retire due to injuries. Edelman will go down as one of the best Patriots receivers of all time. As Tom Brady’s main weapon on the offense for many seasons, they created one of the best wide receivers tandems in the league. He became a fan favorite in New England with his touchdowns and character. He broke out in 2016 with 98 receptions, 1,106 yards, and 3 touchdowns.
Injuries
His final two years in New England were short as he had injuries in the past seasons. Edelman played in only 6 games this season and failed his physical this past offseason. He had his contract terminated this offseason due to injuries as he announced his retirement from the NFL the day after his release. It was a bittersweet ending to his career as he quickly became the Patriot’s number one receiver. After Tom Brady left for Tampa Bay, Edelman’s playing time in New England was short. Losing your quarterback can hurt a receiver and it happened to Edelman as he did not play. The Patriots had a rough transition this season after losing Brady as they went 7-9. As a result, the Patriots finished third in the AFC East and missed the playoffs. Bill Belichick is now looking to rebuild his team going into the next season.
Career
Julian Edelman finished his 11-year carer in New with 620 receptions, 6, 822 yards, and 36 touchdowns. He is a borderline Hall of Famer but is not guaranteed it. He put up numbers in New England, but his injuries and his suspension in 2019 hurt his case. He will be in the Patriots Hall of Fame and Ring of Honor. It will be a difficult ride to Canton, Ohio for Edelman, but the one thing in his favor is being a part of the Patriots dynasty.
Hall of Fame
With that on his resume, he could very well be in Canton along with Tom Brady. If Edelman does make it on to the Hall of Fame ballot in the next 10 years, he would not be a first-ballot Hall of Famer like Brady will. His impact was huge for New England, but it was not as impactful as Brady’s career in New England for 20 years. If Julian Edelman were to make the Hall of Fame, it would be much deserved for the career he had in New England, but it will take a few years on the ballot.
Prediction
Julian Edelman had an amazing 11-year career in New England that gave him 3 super bowl rings in 2015, 2017, and 2019. He has three super bowl wins and the catch in the 2017 Super Bowl against the Atlanta Falcons. In addition, He had a remarkable career in New England. As a result, Edelman will be a Hall of Famer in a few years on the Hall of Fame ballot.