Julian Edelman's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Julian Edelman.

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

2003: Broke School Record

During his time at Kent State University, Julian Edelman broke Joshua Cribbs's single-season school record for total offense in 2003.

2004: Led Wildcats to Undefeated Season

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

August 13, 2009: Made Patriots Team

On August 13, 2009, during a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Julian Edelman returned a punt 75 yards, securing his place on the Patriots team.

2009: Santonio Holmes Last Wide Receiver to Win Super Bowl MVP Before Edelman

In Super Bowl LIII in 2019, Julian Edelman became the first wide receiver to win Super Bowl MVP since Santonio Holmes did so in Super Bowl XLIII in 2009.

2010: Increased Playing Time and Touchdown

During the 2010 season, Julian Edelman saw limited playing time until Week 17 against the Miami Dolphins, where he had three receptions for 72 yards and a 94-yard punt return touchdown. He averaged 15.3 yards per return, second in the league.

December 15, 2011: Charges Dropped

On December 15, 2011, prosecutors dropped all charges against Julian Edelman relating to indecent assault and battery. Prosecutors stated the physical contact was fleeting and did not meet the elements of any crime.

2011: AFC Special Teams Player of the Week Award

During the 2011 season, Julian Edelman earned his first AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award after returning a punt 72 yards for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs. He was also nominated for NFL's "Hardest Working Man" for his performance against the Philadelphia Eagles.

January 22, 2012: AFC Championship Game

On January 22, 2012, in the AFC Championship game against the Baltimore Ravens, Julian Edelman played both wide receiver and cornerback, forcing a fumble on the Ravens' final drive. The Patriots won the game but lost Super Bowl XLVI to the New York Giants.

2013: Breakout Season

2013 became a breakout season for Julian Edelman as he played in all 16 games making 105 receptions for 1,056 yards and 35 punt return opportunities for 374 yards. The Patriots won the AFC East.

2013: Season Opener Touchdowns

During the 2013 season opener, Julian Edelman scored both of New England's touchdowns in a victory over the Buffalo Bills. He became the NFL's all-time leader in career punt return average.

2014: Punt Return Touchdown and Passing Troy Brown

In 2014, Julian Edelman had a strong season with 92 receptions and 972 receiving yards. He returned a punt 84 yards for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos, becoming the Patriots' all-time leader in punt return touchdowns, passing Troy Brown.

2015: NFL Top 100 Players of 2015

In 2015, Julian Edelman was ranked 91st by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players list.

2016: Edelman ranked 87th in NFL Top 100

For his performance in 2015, Julian Edelman was ranked 87th on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.

2017: Edelman ranked 71st in NFL Top 100

For his efforts in 2016, Julian Edelman was ranked 71st by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.

2019: Edelman ranked 90th in NFL Top 100

For his performance in 2018, Julian Edelman was ranked 90th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2019.

April 2020: Charge Dropped

In April 2020, the charge against Julian Edelman was dropped by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office because Edelman had paid the car owner for the repair and had no criminal record.