Julian Edelman was a force to be reckoned with in the National Football League for twelve seasons.
After starting his college career as a quarterback at Kent State, he was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2009.
While he was drafted as a quarterback, he transitioned to become a wide receiver and return specialist for the Patriots.
This move proved to be a winning one, as Edelman became a key player in the Patriots’ offense throughout the 2010s.
He wasn’t just a regular contributor; Edelman developed into a reliable target for quarterback Tom Brady and was known for his clutch catches in big moments.
He played a significant role in the Patriots’ victories in Super Bowls XLIX, LI and LIII, solidifying his place as a Patriots legend.
Even after Brady’s departure, Edelman remained a leader on the Patriots’ offense until his retirement in 2020.
Parents
Edelman’s athletic career was undoubtedly influenced by his family environment. His parents are Frank and Angela Edelman.
His father, Frank, even coached him in youth football.
There have been reports that Julian and his father had a period where they weren’t speaking, but family played a significant role in his upbringing and development as a football player.
He also has siblings – an older brother, Jason and a younger sister, Nicole.
College career
Edelman’s college football journey wasn’t straightforward.
He actually began his career at the College of San Mateo, a junior college in California, playing quarterback. There, he honed his skills and blossomed as a player.
This success led him to transfer to Kent State University, where he continued playing quarterback for three seasons.
Edelman even served as a team captain during his senior year at Kent State, showcasing his leadership qualities.
Throughout his college career, Edelman amassed impressive stats, throwing for nearly 5,000 yards and 30 touchdowns.
Despite his accomplishments, however, he entered the NFL draft in 2009 as a seventh-round pick by the New England Patriots.
Interestingly, his professional career took an unexpected turn.
The Patriots saw potential in him beyond the quarterback position and transitioned him into a wide receiver and punt returner.
This shift proved to be a masterstroke, as Edelman went on to become a vital part of the Patriots’ offensive success, winning three Super Bowls with the team.
NFL career
Edelman carved out a unique and successful career in the NFL, playing for 12 seasons entirely with the New England Patriots.
Drafted in the seventh round in 2009, he wasn’t seen as a top prospect, but he blossomed into a reliable target for quarterback, Brady.
While he never received a Pro Bowl nod, Edelman’s impact came to life most in the biggest moments.
He ranks third all-time in postseason receiving yards and receptions, showcasing his clutch play when it mattered most.
Edelman even holds Super Bowl records for punt returns and receptions, solidifying his place as a true postseason legend.
Despite not boasting the flashiest stats throughout his career, his sure hands, route running savvy, and ability to extend plays made him a beloved figure in New England.
Edelman finished his career with over 6,200 receiving yards and 36 touchdowns, but his contributions to the Patriots’ dynasty go far beyond those numbers.
NFL achievements
While never a Pro Bowl selection, Edelman excelled when the stakes were highest.
He boasts the third most receiving yards and receptions in NFL playoff history and his performances in Super Bowls were legendary.
Edelman was a two-time Super Bowl champion before truly etching his name in history during Super Bowl LIII. In that game, a tense 13-3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams, Edelman became the unquestioned MVP.
He hauled in 10 of 12 targets for a game-high 141 yards, essentially carrying the Patriots receiving corps.
This performance not only cemented his place in Patriots lore, but also made him the first wide receiver to win Super Bowl MVP since 2009 and the first Jewish player to receive the honor altogether.
Personal life
Edelman has never been married. He does, however, have a daughter, Lily Rose, with Swedish model Ella Rose.
Their relationship was brief, and Lily was born in 2016. While Edelman initially contested paternity, he has since acknowledged Lily as his daughter.
It appears they co-parent, though Edelman keeps his personal life private.
Net worth
Edelman, the retired wide receiver who carved out a stellar career with the New England Patriots, has amassed an impressive net worth.
Estimates range from around $25 million to $30 million. During his 12 seasons in the NFL, Edelman reeled in a hefty sum through playing contracts.
Overthecap.com reports his career earnings at over $42 million. But his financial success extends beyond the gridiron.
Edelman’s savvy business decisions and endorsement deals have also contributed significantly to his wealth. He has partnered with brands like CoachUp, Cutters, Ermenegildo Zegna and Joe’s.
Since retiring from football in 2021, Edelman transitioned into the world of sports analysis, reportedly landing a lucrative contract with Fox News.
Some sources estimate his annual salary as an analyst to be around $7 million, further solidifying his financial standing.
