Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Julian Edelman

Discover the career path of Julian Edelman, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Julian Edelman, a former American football wide receiver, played 12 seasons in the NFL, all with the New England Patriots. Drafted in the seventh round in 2009, Edelman transitioned from college quarterback to NFL return specialist and wide receiver. He became a key offensive player for the Patriots starting in 2013 and remained a core member of the team's receiving group until his retirement after the 2020 season.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2009: Drafted by New England Patriots

In 2009, Julian Edelman was drafted by the New England Patriots in the seventh round of the NFL draft. He transitioned from a quarterback to a return specialist and wide receiver.

2013: Primary Offensive Starter

In 2013, Julian Edelman became a primary offensive starter for the New England Patriots. This marked a significant point in his NFL career.

November 16, 2015: Edelman undergoes foot surgery

On November 16, 2015, Julian Edelman underwent foot surgery to repair an injury to his fifth metatarsal suffered in a game against the New York Giants.

2016: Edelman was teammates with Chris Long

In 2016, Julian Edelman played alongside Chris Long on the Patriots team.

2016: Edelman Publishes Children's Book, Flying High

In 2016, Julian Edelman published his first children's book, "Flying High", about a squirrel who overcomes limitations.

Flying High

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June 8, 2017: Edelman signs contract extension with Patriots

On June 8, 2017, Julian Edelman signed a two-year, $11 million contract extension with the Patriots, including $9 million guaranteed through the 2019 season.

September 2, 2017: Edelman Placed on Injured Reserve After ACL Tear

On September 2, 2017, Julian Edelman was placed on injured reserve after tearing his ACL in a preseason game against the Detroit Lions, ending his season.

October 24, 2017: Edelman's Memoir, Relentless, Published

On October 24, 2017, Julian Edelman's memoir, "Relentless", co-written with Tom E. Curran, was published by Hachette Book Group.

Relentless: A Memoir

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December 2017: Flying High 2 Released

In December 2017, Julian Edelman released "Flying High 2", a sequel loosely based on his Super Bowl catch against the Atlanta Falcons.

Flying High 2

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2017: Edelman tears ACL

In 2019, Julian Edelman co-founded Nuthouse Sports and their first venture was the 2019 Showtime documentary 100%, about Edelman's recovery from a 2017 ACL tear and the 2018 NFL season.

February 2018: Edelman expected to be ready for training camp

In February 2018, reports indicated that Julian Edelman was expected to be ready to play by the 2018 training camp, following recovery from injury.

2018: 2018 NFL Season

In 2019, Julian Edelman co-founded Nuthouse Sports and their first venture was the 2019 Showtime documentary 100%, about Edelman's recovery from a 2017 ACL tear and the 2018 NFL season.

May 21, 2019: Edelman signs contract extension with Patriots

On May 21, 2019, Julian Edelman signed a two-year, $18 million contract extension with the Patriots that keeps him under contract through the 2021 season.

2019: Edelman's 2019 Season

During the 2019 season, Julian Edelman achieved 100 receptions for 1,117 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns. He also suffered a rib injury in Week 3 against the New York Jets.

2019: Edelman co-founds Nuthouse Sports and Showtime documentary released

In 2019, Julian Edelman co-founded Nuthouse Sports and their first venture was the 2019 Showtime documentary 100%, about Edelman's recovery from a 2017 ACL tear and the 2018 NFL season.

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2019: Contract guaranteed through 2019 season

On June 8, 2017, Julian Edelman signed a two-year, $11 million contract extension with the Patriots, including $9 million guaranteed through the 2019 season.

October 25, 2020: Edelman plays final game

Julian Edelman played his final NFL game on October 25, 2020, in a loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

October 31, 2020: Edelman Placed on Injured Reserve After Knee Surgery

On October 31, 2020, Julian Edelman was placed on injured reserve after undergoing minor knee surgery.

December 16, 2020: Edelman Designated to Return From Injured Reserve

On December 16, 2020, Julian Edelman was designated to return from injured reserve.

2020: Retirement after 2020 Season

After the 2020 season, Julian Edelman retired from professional football, concluding his 12-season career with the New England Patriots.

January 1, 2021: Edelman would not be activated before end of season

On January 1, 2021, it was announced that Julian Edelman would not be activated from injured reserve before the end of the season.

April 12, 2021: Edelman announces retirement from NFL

On April 12, 2021, Julian Edelman announced his retirement from the NFL after 12 seasons with the Patriots.

April 2021: ViacomCBS Deal and Inside the NFL Analyst Role

In April 2021, ViacomCBS signed a multi-year development deal with Coast Productions, with Julian Edelman joining Inside the NFL as an analyst, moving to Paramount+.

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