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Julian Edelman

Julian Francis Edelman is an American former professional football player best known as a wide receiver and return specialist for the New England Patriots of the National Football League (NFL).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Julian Francis Edelman is an American former professional football player, best known as a wide receiver and return specialist for the New England Patriots of the National Football League (NFL). Born in Redwood City, California, he played college football as a quarterback at Kent State before being drafted by the Patriots in 2009. Edelman won three Super Bowls with New England and was named Super Bowl LIII MVP.

Early life and college career

Edelman was born in Redwood City, California. He played quarterback in high school and at the College of San Mateo before transferring to Kent State, where he continued as a quarterback and set school records for total offense.

NFL career with the New England Patriots

The Patriots selected Edelman in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He began his professional career as a return specialist and later became a regular offensive starter and one of Tom Brady's key targets.

Postseason success and Super Bowl LIII

Edelman was known for strong playoff performances and helped New England win three championships. In Super Bowl LIII, he was named Most Valuable Player after recording 10 receptions for 141 yards.

Retirement and later work

Edelman announced his retirement in April 2021 after his contract was voided following a failed physical. After football, he worked in media and entertainment, including television analysis and acting credits.

Key facts

  • Played 12 NFL seasons, all with the New England Patriots.
  • Converted from college quarterback to NFL wide receiver and return specialist.
  • Won Super Bowls XLIX, LI, and LIII with New England.
  • Named Super Bowl LIII Most Valuable Player after a 10-catch, 141-yard performance.
  • Retired from professional football in 2021.
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Canadian context

Edelman is of interest to Canadian readers as a major figure in NFL history and a prominent former Patriots player often followed by Canadian fans of American football, especially during the Super Bowl era.

Frequently asked questions

What position did Julian Edelman play?
He played mainly as a wide receiver and return specialist in the NFL, after playing quarterback in college.
Which team did Julian Edelman play for?
He played his entire NFL career with the New England Patriots.
When was Julian Edelman born?
He was born on May 22, 1986, in Redwood City, California.
How many Super Bowls did he win?
He won three Super Bowls with the Patriots: XLIX, LI, and LIII.
Was Julian Edelman a Super Bowl MVP?
Yes. He was named Super Bowl LIII MVP.
When did Julian Edelman retire?
He announced his retirement in April 2021.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_Edelman
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, college career, NFL tenure, and retirement timing.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/12649/julian-edelman
    Supports: Position, birth date, college, draft information, and birthplace.
  3. New England Patriots Hall of Fame — https://www.patriotshalloffame.com/hall_of_fomer/julian-edelman/
    Supports: Patriots career span, number, position, college, and franchise statistics.
  4. NBC Sports Boston — https://www.nbcsportsboston.com/nfl/new-england-patriots/get-to-know-julian-edelman-stats-records-and-more/200186/
    Supports: Career statistics, postseason records, championships, and retirement note.
  5. German Wikipedia — https://www.de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_Edelman
    Supports: Super Bowl wins, Super Bowl LIII MVP, and retirement date.