Full History Of Julian Edelman In Timeline From 1976

1976: Mike Haynes's Punt Return Record

In 1976, Mike Haynes set the previous longest punt return record in Patriots' franchise history, a record that stood until Julian Edelman's performance in 2010.

May 22, 1986: Birth of Julian Edelman

Julian Francis Edelman was born on May 22, 1986.

1995: David Sloan's Rookie Playoff Achievement

In the 1995 season, David Sloan, playing for the Detroit Lions, achieved a notable feat as a rookie by scoring two receiving touchdowns in a single postseason game.

2001: Troy Brown's Punt Return Touchdown

In 2001, Troy Brown scored a punt return touchdown for the Patriots in a regular-season game against the Carolina Panthers.

2003: Joshua Cribbs Sets School Record

In 2003, Joshua Cribbs set a single-season school record for total offense at Kent State University.

2004: High School Football Success

In 2004, Julian Edelman, as a senior, led the Woodside High School Wildcats to a 13-0 record.

2007: First Patriots Wide Receiver to Receive AFC Offensive Player of the Week Since Randy Moss

In 2007, Randy Moss was the last Patriots wide receiver to be named AFC Offensive Player of the Week before Julian Edelman achieved the honor.

2007: Wes Welker's Arrival in New England

Wes Welker joined the Patriots in 2007, marking a significant addition to the team.

July 16, 2009: Signing with the Patriots and Transitioning Positions

On July 16, 2009, Edelman signed with the Patriots, acknowledging his transition to positions other than quarterback to secure an NFL roster spot. He declined an offer from the BC Lions, who saw him as a potential quarterback.

August 13, 2009: Preseason Success and Making the Team

On August 13, 2009, during a preseason game, Edelman's impressive 75-yard punt return secured his spot on the Patriots' roster, beating out Greg Lewis, a former Eagles wide receiver.

2009: Edelman's Pro Day Performance

At his Pro Day on March 12, 2009, Edelman showcased his athleticism, particularly his speed, clocking a time of 3.92 seconds in the short shuttle, a time faster than the fastest recorded at that year's NFL Combine.

2009: Drafted into the NFL

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

2009: Santonio Holmes Wins Super Bowl MVP

In 2009, Santonio Holmes became the last wide receiver before Julian Edelman to win the Super Bowl MVP award, achieving this feat in Super Bowl XLIII.

2010: Breakout Performance and Franchise Records

During the 2010 season, in a game against the Miami Dolphins, Edelman had a standout performance. Notably, he achieved the first punt return touchdown for the Patriots in the regular season since 2001 and set a new franchise record with the longest punt return in Patriots' history.

2010: League-Leading Return Average

In 2010, Edelman's exceptional performance as a returner was highlighted by his league-leading average of 15.3 yards per return, second only to the Chicago Bears' Devin Hester.

December 15, 2011: Indecent Assault and Battery Charges Dropped

On December 15, 2011, prosecutors dropped all charges against Julian Edelman related to an alleged indecent assault and battery incident at a Halloween party earlier that year.

2011: Versatility on Display as Defensive Back

During the 2011 season, Edelman's versatility was evident as he was called upon to play defensive back due to injuries in the Patriots' secondary.

2011: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week and Recognition for Hard Work

In 2011, Edelman earned recognition for his contributions on special teams, earning the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award and being nominated for the NFL's "Hardest Working Man" for his on-field efforts.

January 22, 2012: Key Plays in the AFC Championship

On January 22, 2012, during the AFC Championship game against the Baltimore Ravens, Edelman played a crucial role, making key contributions on both offense and defense, showcasing his versatility and football IQ.

2012: Increased Snap Count and Hand Injury

In the 2012 NFL season, Julian Edelman's snap count increased for the New England Patriots. He even started over Wes Welker in a Week 2 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. However, he suffered a hand injury in Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens and missed the next three games.

2012: Touchdowns, Franchise Record, and Season-Ending Injury

Julian Edelman had a memorable Thanksgiving Day game in 2012, scoring two touchdowns in the second quarter as the Patriots defeated the New York Jets. He achieved a rare feat by scoring both a receiving touchdown and a return touchdown in consecutive games. Unfortunately, he broke his right foot in a game against the Miami Dolphins on December 2nd and missed the rest of the season.

2012: End of 2012 Season

Julian Edelman's 2012 season ended with a foot injury after playing nine games, recording 21 receptions for 235 yards, and 301 return yards.

April 10, 2013: Re-Signing with New England

After becoming a free agent in 2013, Julian Edelman re-signed with the New England Patriots on a one-year deal on April 10, 2013.

December 2013: Public Declaration of Jewish Identity

During an NFL Network interview in December 2013, Julian Edelman publicly identified as Jewish and spoke about celebrating Hanukkah, signifying a growing awareness of his religious and cultural background.

December 2013: Edelman's Jewish Awakening

In December 2013, Edelman revealed in an interview that he identifies as Jewish and celebrates Hanukkah, describing it as a "Jewish awakening."

2013: Became a Primary Offensive Starter

In 2013, Julian Edelman became a primary offensive starter for the Patriots.

2013: Career Highs and Punt Return Record

In 2013, Julian Edelman had a standout performance in the season opener, scoring both touchdowns in a win against the Buffalo Bills. His punt return yardage propelled him to become the NFL's all-time leader in career punt return average at that time.

2013: End of 2013 Season

Julian Edelman concluded the 2013 season as a free agent after a remarkable performance, recording 105 receptions for 1,056 yards and 374 punt return yards.

2013: Breakout Season and 100-Reception Milestone

Julian Edelman had a breakout season in 2013, playing all 16 games and surpassing 100 receptions for the first time in his career. He was instrumental in a historic comeback win against the Denver Broncos, where he outperformed their star wide receivers. The Patriots won the AFC East but lost in the AFC Championship game to the Denver Broncos.

March 15, 2014: Four-Year Contract Extension

Following his impressive 2013 season, Julian Edelman signed a four-year contract extension with the Patriots worth $17 million on March 15, 2014.

2014: Punt Return Record and Key Touchdowns

In 2014, Julian Edelman continued to contribute significantly to the Patriots. He broke the franchise record for most punt return touchdowns and scored a crucial touchdown in a win against the San Diego Chargers.

2014: Display of Israeli-American Flag Pin

In 2014, during a game against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium, Julian Edelman demonstrated his support for Israel by wearing an Israeli-American flag pin on his hat.

November 16, 2015: Foot Injury and Surgery

Julian Edelman's 2015 season was cut short by a foot injury sustained against the New York Giants. He underwent surgery on November 16, 2015, and was expected to miss significant time.

2015: Various Media Appearances and Endorsements

In 2015, Julian Edelman made several notable appearances, presenting at the Grammy Awards alongside teammate Malcolm Butler, and starring in a Puma advertisement campaign.

2015: Super Bowl XLIX Champion and NFL Top 100 Recognition

Julian Edelman had a standout performance in Super Bowl XLIX, leading all receivers with 109 yards in the Patriots' victory over the Seattle Seahawks. His touchdown reception late in the fourth quarter proved to be the game-winning score. He was recognized for his performance by being ranked 91st on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2015.

July 2016: Paternity Suit and Acknowledgment of Daughter

In July 2016, Swedish model Ella Rose filed a paternity suit against Julian Edelman. While he initially contested paternity, Edelman later acknowledged he was the father of Rose's unborn daughter. The child was born in November of that year.

September 15, 2016: Fine for Helmet-to-Helmet Hit

On September 15, 2016, Julian Edelman was fined $26,309 for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Arizona Cardinals linebacker Deone Bucannon.

2016: Playoff Return and NFL Top 100 Ranking

Despite missing a portion of the regular season, Julian Edelman returned for the playoffs in 2016 and helped the Patriots reach the AFC Championship. His performance earned him recognition on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.

2016: Chris Long as Teammate and Podcast Appearances

In 2016, Julian Edelman played alongside Chris Long on the Patriots. Following his retirement, Edelman appeared on Long's podcast "Green Light with Chris Long" to reflect on his career.

2016: Publishes First Children's Book

Joining teammates Malcolm Mitchell and Martellus Bennett, Julian Edelman ventured into children's literature in 2016 by publishing "Flying High," a story about a squirrel named Jules overcoming physical limitations.

2016: Relationship with Adriana Lima

Julian Edelman was romantically involved with Brazilian model Adriana Lima intermittently throughout 2016 and 2017.

June 8, 2017: Contract Extension

Julian Edelman signed a two-year contract extension with the New England Patriots on June 8, 2017, securing his future with the team.

September 2, 2017: Season-Ending ACL Tear

Julian Edelman's 2017 season ended before it began due to a torn ACL suffered in a preseason game against the Detroit Lions. He was placed on injured reserve on September 2, 2017.

October 24, 2017: Memoir "Relentless" is Published

Co-written with Tom E. Curran of NBC Sports Boston, Julian Edelman's memoir titled "Relentless" hit the shelves on October 24, 2017, offering insights into his life and football journey.

December 2017: Releases Sequel to Children's Book

In December 2017, Julian Edelman released "Flying High 2," a sequel to his children's book, drawing inspiration from his memorable Super Bowl catch against the Atlanta Falcons.

2017: Featured in NFL Network Special with Danny Amendola

Julian Edelman and teammate Danny Amendola were featured in "NFL Going Global: Edelman & Amendola," a 30-minute special on NFL Network that documented their promotional trip to Mexico City preceding the Patriots' game there in 2017.

2017: Career-High Season and NFL Top 100 Ranking

Julian Edelman had another strong season in 2017, setting a career-high in receiving yards. His performance was recognized with a ranking of 71st on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017 list.

2017: ACL Tear

Julian Edelman suffered an ACL tear in 2017, as documented in his documentary "100%".

2017: Continued Relationship with Adriana Lima

Julian Edelman's relationship with Adriana Lima continued into 2017, marking a period of their on-and-off involvement.

February 2018: Expected Return from Injury

In February 2018, Julian Edelman was expected to have recovered from a previous injury and be ready to participate in the 2018 training camp.

November 4, 2018: Show of Support for Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting Victims

Following the Patriots' victory over the Green Bay Packers on November 4, 2018, Julian Edelman wore an Israeli flag hat as a gesture of support for the victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting.

December 16, 2018: Customized Cleats Honoring Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting Victims

On December 16, 2018, during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Julian Edelman wore custom cleats bearing the hashtag #strongerthanhate to honor the victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. He shared a picture of these cleats on Instagram, listing the names of all the victims in the caption.

2018: Return to NFL Season After ACL Tear

In 2018, Julian Edelman returned to the NFL season following his recovery from a 2017 ACL tear. This experience was a central theme in his documentary "100%".

2018: Playoff Performance Sparks Hall of Fame Debate

Julian Edelman's impressive performance in the 2018 playoffs ignited discussions about his potential induction into the Hall of Fame, despite not having extensive regular season achievements.

May 21, 2019: Signs Contract Extension with Patriots

On May 21, 2019, Julian Edelman solidified his commitment to the Patriots by signing a two-year contract extension valued at $18 million, with $12 million guaranteed, extending his tenure with the team through the 2021 season.

2019: Presents at the Grammy Awards

Alongside teammate Devin McCourty, Julian Edelman took the stage at the 2019 Grammy Awards as a presenter.

2019: Ranked 90th on NFL Top 100 Players

In 2019, Julian Edelman secured the 90th position on the NFL Top 100 Players list, as voted by his peers.

2019: Reflections on Fatherhood

In a 2019 interview with Haute Living magazine, Julian Edelman discussed the challenges and rewards of being a father, emphasizing how it had transformed his perspective on life.

2019: Coast Productions Founding and "100%" Documentary

Julian Edelman co-founded the production company Coast Productions with Assaf Swissa in 2019. Their first project was the Showtime documentary "100%", which chronicled Edelman's recovery from a 2017 ACL tear and the 2018 NFL season.

2019: Contract Guarantee Through 2019

Julian Edelman's contract extension included $9 million guaranteed through the 2019 season.

2019: Notable Games and Achievements of the 2019 Season

Throughout 2019, Julian Edelman had a series of notable games, including a rib injury, a 100-yard receiving game, surpassing a franchise record for receptions, and throwing a touchdown pass. He ended the season with 100 receptions for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns.

January 11, 2020: Misdemeanor Vandalism Charge

On January 11, 2020, Julian Edelman received a misdemeanor vandalism citation from the Beverly Hills Police Department for allegedly jumping on the hood of a car and causing damage.

April 2020: Vandalism Charge Dropped

The misdemeanor vandalism charge against Julian Edelman was dropped in April 2020 after he compensated the car owner for repairs. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office cited Edelman's lack of a criminal record in their decision.

October 25, 2020: Final Game with the Patriots

On October 25, 2020, Julian Edelman played his last game in a Patriots uniform, which resulted in a 33-6 loss against the San Francisco 49ers. He finished the game with one reception for 13 yards.

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

Following a knee surgery, Julian Edelman was placed on injured reserve on October 31, 2020, sidelining him for a significant portion of the season.

November 30, 2020: Placed on Reserve/COVID-19 List

On November 30, 2020, Julian Edelman was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list, adding further complications to his injury-ridden season.

December 16, 2020: Designated to Return from Injured Reserve

On December 16, 2020, Julian Edelman was designated to return from injured reserve, opening a 21-day window for the Patriots to activate him to the active roster.

2020: Retirement from the NFL

Julian Edelman retired from the NFL after the 2020 season.

January 1, 2021: Not Activated Before End of Season

Despite being designated to return from injured reserve, head coach Bill Belichick announced on January 1, 2021, that Julian Edelman would not be activated before the end of the season.

April 12, 2021: Announces Retirement from NFL

After 12 seasons with the New England Patriots, Julian Edelman announced his retirement from the NFL on April 12, 2021, marking the end of an era for the wide receiver.

April 2021: ViacomCBS Development Deal and Inside the NFL Analyst Role

In April 2021, ViacomCBS signed a multi-year development deal with Coast Productions, Edelman's production company. As part of the deal, Edelman joined the "Inside the NFL" show as an analyst when it moved to Paramount+.

2021: Contract with Patriots Expires

Julian Edelman's contract extension, signed in 2019, was set to expire in 2021, marking the end of his guaranteed time with the Patriots.

November 25, 2022: A Football Life Documentary

On November 25, 2022, The NFL Network aired an episode of their documentary series "A Football Life", which featured Julian Edelman.

2022: Games With Names Podcast Launch and Media Appearances

In 2022, Julian Edelman began co-hosting the "Games With Names" podcast with comedian Sam Morril. He also made numerous appearances on other podcasts and sports shows, including "New Heights", "Cold as Balls", and "The Von Cast". His impersonation of Bill Belichick on the "New Heights" podcast gained widespread attention and became an internet meme.