Julian Edelman: Underdog Mentality

What set Julian Edelman apart from others throughout his career was not just his ability to make spectacular plays but his consistency as a reliable playmaker for Tom Brady. Whether it was converting crucial third downs, returning punts, or even playing nickel cornerback, his versatility made him a weapon for the Patriots.

When the lights were brightest, is when Edelman would shine the most. His postseason career consisted of many memorable moments that will go down in NFL history as some of the best ever. His playoff performances were unmatched, earning the nickname “Playoff Edelman”, his ability to elevate his game in these moments etched his name in Patriots history forever. There seems to be a theme, which is, reliability, and that cannot be more true in these crucial moments of the playoffs. Whether it be winning Super Bowl MVP vs the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 49, or making a spectacular catch in the 4th quarter Super Bowl 51 to continue the drive and ultimately complete a historic 28-3 comeback, or throwing a double pass, to good friend Danny Amendola, for a touchdown in the divisional round vs the Baltimore Ravens.

Playoff greatness 

Edelman’s playoff statistics stack up with the best receiver of all time, Jerry Rice. Edelman ranks 2nd in both playoff receptions and receiving yards behind Rice. In the 2018 playoffs he set the record for most receptions throughout a single postseason with 28. He is the only receiver to have 6 consecutive playoff games with 6 or more receptions, proving that he is the most reliable player when it comes to big moments.

The trust between a quarterback and wide receiver is the key to a successful passing game, and Edelman’s chemistry with Brady was a testament to the many hours they spent behind the scenes in the off-season. The duo’s connection was nothing short of magical. The ability to read each other's minds, anticipate plays, and execute them with precision made the Brady-Edelman connection the most potent in the NFL for many years. It also helps when Edelman understands what Brady has to go through as Quarterback because, even though he did not do it at the highest level, he played the position too. Wide Receivers in the NFL are known to be “divas” when they are not getting the targets they believe they should be getting, Edelman was no diva.

In the Nation Football League, unique stories of players overcoming adversity are what fans fall in love with. Players all have their own stories and paths to how they became professional athletes, but one stands out, Julian Edelman. When you hear the name you think of grit, determination, and an underdog mentality that no one could match. From his humble beginnings as a low Division 1 college quarterback, to becoming a 3-time Super Bowl Champion with the New England Patriots, including a Super Bowl MVP as a wide receiver. Edelman’s story emerges as a shining example of what can be achieved through resilience and determination that transcends the boundaries of the playing field. We will dive into Edelman's journey that contained moments of grit, many glorious moments, which overall put his name up against some of the greatest receivers to step onto the gridiron.

Rise of Edelman

The stories of underdogs rising to become a star in the NFL are ones that are loved by fans, and Edelman’s journey is nothing short of an underdog beating all the odds. Coming from Redwood City, California, his story began with a passion for the game that would eventually mold his future identity. From the beginning, his commitment to the game itself was unmatched. He was always determined to play college football and he took an opportunity that was given to him by Kent State University to be their quarterback. Despite Kent State not being a powerhouse in college football, he was able to set a foundation for who he was as a player. As a quarterback he was able to showcase his intelligence of the game, athleticism, and toughness that allowed for a smooth transition to wide receiver in the NFL.

Edelman’s stardom did not come right away because transitioning to a position you have never played is not normal for NFL players. Bill Belichick saw something in him that gave him the confidence to take a gamble on him in the 7th round and transition him to wide receiver. This transition set the stage for his career defined by resilience and a willingness to step outside his comfort zone. Going from calling the plays as a quarterback to understanding how to become a crisp route runner, demanded physical prowess as well as the little nuances of the game. His commitment to mastering his new role as a wide receiver underlined his determination to get on the field and contribute to the team in any way possible.

Reliability and Retirement 

Throughout Edelman’s career, he proved time and again that he was a very reliable playmaker who could be counted on in crucial situations when the team needed it. In the NFL, where games are often decided by a few pivotal moments, it always seemed like Edelman emerged as the go-to player in these clutch situations. Although his career stats do not stack up against the best of all time, he was the glue that was able to keep drives going. Whether it was a critical third down that could swing the momentum of a game or a fourth quarter drive with everything on the line, his reliability was so consistent that all the fans fell in love with him, as well as his quarterback.

Julian Edelman’s journey from a 7th round draft pick to a Super Bowl MVP is a story that goes beyond the boundaries of sports, proving that resilience, determination, and toughness is how someone can become successful in the NFL. It is clear that his impact extends far beyond the tangible achievement on the field. It is a story that can resonate with anyone who thinks they are facing adversity, setbacks, or being doubted by others. In an era where the spotlight often focuses on stats and highlight reel plays, Edelman’s story stands alone because he was never the flashy player but always would be counted on in the most crucial moments of the most crucial games. Since Edelman’s playing career has come to an end, what remains is a legacy that exemplifies the very essence of sports - a journey marked by highs and lows, victories and defeats, but above all, a journey defined by the relentless pursuit of greatness.

Now being retired from the NFL for three years, Edelman has moved onto other things in life, while still trying to have an impact on the game he so dearly admired. To honor the game he has started a podcast called, Games With Names, where he invites special guests who were involved in some of the most historic games of all time throughout all of sports. Furthermore, as most retired athletes do, he also is a TV analyst for Fox NFL Kickoff, where he is able to give his input into games throughout the football season. Being as smart as he is with understanding the game of football and his unique personality, this job is one that fits his character very well.