(Photo : (Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images)) OXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 07: Matthew Slater #18 of the New England Patriots waves to followers whereas strolling off the sphere after a sport in opposition to the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
New England Patriots Captain Matthew Slater introduced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, after 16 seasons within the NFL.
A message from Matthew Slater. pic.twitter.com/diVYMtAapu
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) February 20, 2024
“I have given all that I possibly can to respect and honor the game,” Slater wrote in a social media submit shared by the New England Patriots. “Though it is time for my relationship with the game to evolve, the love I have for it will last a lifetime.”
Slater, who’s the son of former Los Angeles Rams offensive lineman Jackie Slater, was chosen by the New England Patriots within the fifth spherical of the 2008 NFL Draft out of UCLA and spent his entire profession with the franchise.
Despite being listed as a large receiver, Slater served as the most effective particular groups gamers within the NFL. He totaled 191 tackles and 5 compelled fumbles all through his profession.
Through his time in New England, Slater spent 13 years as a captain on the staff; making 10 Pro Bowls and incomes All-Pro nods all through his profession together with serving to the staff win three Super Bowls.
“In 2008, I came here as a young man with hopes and dreams,” he wrote. “In 2024, I can retire knowing this experience has exceeded any hope or dream I ever had.”
Slater went on to thank former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, who in an interview with the thirty third Team acknowledged Slater as one of the best particular groups participant he has ever coached.
Finally, Slater thanked the followers.
“Pats Nation, it has been an honor to represent the silver, red, white, and blue for 16 years,” he wrote. “Thank you for cheering, challenging and supporting our team each and every year. To the people of New England, thank you for welcoming my family and me into your community and allowing us to call New England home. We are beyond humbled and blessed. You the fans make an NFL player’s experience what it is.”
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