The news of New England Patriots player Julian Edelman hanging up his boots shocked football fans across the world. Drafted by the franchise back in 2009, the wide receiver was a key offensive target for QB Tom Brady.

After a slow start to his career in New England, Edelman picked up the pace in 2013 to record his first 1,000 + yard receiving season. Winning his first Super Bowl with the franchise in 2014, Edelman went on to claim the coveted Lombardi trophy twice further down his career.

His memorable performance in Super Bowl LIII against the LA Rams saw him being named the Super Bowl MVP that season. But injuries plagued the wide receiver for some time now.

In 2020, Edelman could only start one game due to his struggles with chronic knee pain. Edelman tried surgery to help his cause, but a failed medical on Monday ultimately saw the Patriots terminate his contract.

A lifelong Patriot, Edelman took to social media to announce his retirement from the sport. Multiple NFL players poured in with their good wishes and respect. 

And among one of them is former New England Patriots QB Tom Brady.

An emotional farewell to Edelman from Tom Brady

Brady, who joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ahead of the 2020 NFL season, played 10 seasons with Edelman at New England. The two always shared a close bond and Brady took to Twitter to appreciate all the Edelman has achieved.

“You never let anyone define you as a person or player. You have so many teammates that admired your work ethic and will to win, and I am at the top of the list,” said Tom Brady in his message on Instagram.

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Much like Brady, Edelman entered the NFL as a rather unknown commodity. He might not have been the best wide receiver in his draft class, but with some hard work and dedication, Edelman showed the league his true capabilities.

“On the biggest stage and in the biggest moments, you always came through. I was a witness to so much of the journey and am so proud of you and how you grew from 7th round underdog to an older 7th round underdog,” said Brady.

For all the support Edelman provided Brady over the years, the QB thanked the wide receiver who hung up his boots with three Super Bowls to his name.  

“When I was down and feeling sorry for myself at times, you were right there to pick me up. You were as tough as one could be. And I love you for all that you did to make our teams as great as they could possibly be.”

With Edelman now retired, the Patriots will need some thinking to do. How Edelman’s decision to retire will affect the franchise’s draft strategy remains to be seen.

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