Julian Edelman
Julian Edelman – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes
Julian Edelman (born May 22, 1986) is a former NFL wide receiver for the New England Patriots. Learn about his journey from college quarterback to Super Bowl MVP, his legacy, and his most inspiring quotes.
Introduction
Julian Francis Edelman (born May 22, 1986) is a retired American football player known for his versatility, grit, and playoff heroics. After being drafted in the 7th round despite playing quarterback in college, he switched roles to become a wide receiver and punt returner for the New England Patriots.
Edelman’s legacy is most strongly tied to clutch performances in postseason and Super Bowl games, including being named Super Bowl LIII MVP. His career is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and rising in the moment.
Early Life and Family
Julian Edelman was born in Redwood City, California. His parents are Angela (née Gole) and Frank Edelman; his father worked as a mechanic. He has siblings named Jason and Nicole.
In his youth, Edelman played multiple sports, and was a standout in football and baseball at Woodside High School in Woodside, California. As a senior in high school, he led his team to a 13-0 record, throwing for over 2,200 yards and 29 touchdowns, plus rushing for nearly 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns.
He was relatively small as a freshman (weighing under 100 lbs) before having a growth spurt.
Youth, Education & College Career
After high school, Edelman attended College of San Mateo for one year, where he played quarterback. There he threw for 1,312 yards and 14 touchdowns, and rushed for a San Mateo school record of 1,253 yards and 17 touchdowns.
He then transferred to Kent State University, where he continued as a three-year starter at quarterback. In his final season, he threw for 1,820 yards (13 touchdowns) and also rushed for 1,370 yards and 13 touchdowns. His total offense in that season broke the school’s single-season record.
Though he had strong numbers, he was not drafted as a quarterback in the NFL; instead, he prepared to shift roles.
Professional Career & Achievements
Entering the NFL & Position Switch
The New England Patriots selected Edelman in the 7th round (232nd overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft. From the outset, he recognized that staying at quarterback would be unlikely—so he trained to play as a receiver/returner.
Early in his career, he served as a punt returner and depth receiver, gradually increasing his role.
Breakout & Postseason Success
By 2013, Edelman began seeing more targets and playing a more central role in the Patriots’ offense. Over his career, he was known especially for his playoff performances: he ranks among the top in postseason receiving yards and receptions.
In Super Bowl LIII, Edelman caught 10 passes for 141 yards, accounting for over half of the Patriots’ receiving yards, and was named Super Bowl MVP.
He won three Super Bowls (XLIX, LI, LIII) during his tenure.
Career Totals & Recognition
Over 12 NFL seasons—all with New England—Edelman compiled:
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620 receptions
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6,822 receiving yards
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36 receiving touchdowns
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As a returner, 2,612 return yards and 4 return touchdowns.
After retiring following the 2020 season, fans voted him into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2025.
He never earned a Pro Bowl selection in his career, but is widely celebrated for his clutch performances and postseason legacy.
Historical Milestones & Context
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May 22, 1986 — Born in Redwood City, California.
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2005 — Played at College of San Mateo.
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2006-08 — Played quarterback at Kent State.
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2009 — Drafted by Patriots, begins NFL career.
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2013 onward — Becomes more prominent receiving option.
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2015, 2017, 2019 — Part of Patriots’ Super Bowl championships.
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2021 — Retires from NFL.
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2025 — Voted into Patriots Hall of Fame.
Edelman’s career unfolded during an era when the Patriots were a dynasty under Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. His story showcases how an undersized, late draft pick can reshape his own role and become indispensable—especially in the postseason.
Legacy and Influence
Julian Edelman’s impact is multifaceted:
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Playoff Performer: His strong postseason numbers enhance his reputation beyond regular-season stats.
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Underdog Model: He is often cited as an example of perseverance and versatility rising above expectations.
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Patriots Legend: Being voted into the team’s Hall of Fame underscores his significance to the franchise.
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Clutch Icon: Many fans remember key catches and moments he produced under pressure.
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Broad Appeal: His transition to media, podcasting, and public presence keeps him in the public eye post-football.
Personality, Approach & Values
Edelman has consistently spoken about hard work, short memory (moving past mistakes), and embracing adversity.
He has said:
“Tough times don’t last. Tough people do. I preach that, and I guess you have to live to it.”
“I always preach you have to have a short memory, whether it is good or bad.”
“I don’t say I’m necessarily a professional football player. I’m a competitor.”
“The No. 1 rule you’re taught as a receiver: You’ve just got to watch the ball … the guy who was lucky got an opportunity, and he was prepared for it.”
These statements reflect someone who sees sport (and life) as a constant battle requiring mental resilience, preparation, and the ability to move forward.
He also acknowledges his roots:
“My dad was just a little trailer trash white dude that worked his tail off … He dedicated his life to his kids to let us live our dreams.”
His identity includes a later-in-life exploration of Jewish heritage; though raised Christian, he has described having what he calls a “Jewish awakening” in adulthood.
Famous Quotes of Julian Edelman
Here is a curated selection of his more memorable quotes:
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“I’ll take an ugly win over a pretty loss any day.”
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“Tough times don’t last. Tough people do. I preach that, and I guess you have to live to it.”
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“I always preach you have to have a short memory, whether it is good or bad.”
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“I don’t say I’m necessarily a professional football player. I’m a competitor.”
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“The No. 1 rule you’re taught as a receiver: You’ve just got to watch the ball. … the guy who was lucky got an opportunity, and he was prepared for it.”
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“My dad was just a little trailer trash white dude that worked his tail off … He dedicated his life to his kids to let us live our dreams.”
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“I’m a practice player. The more I practice, the more confident I become.”
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“You can never go wrong with a pair of jeans, a cool tailored shirt, and a nice jacket. … It’s simple, but it’s cool.”
Lessons from Julian Edelman
From his journey and mindset, we can derive several lessons:
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Adaptability is powerful
Switching positions from college QB to NFL receiver/returner allowed him to find his niche. -
Mental toughness matters
He emphasizes recovering quickly from mistakes and maintaining competitive resilience. -
Preparation meets opportunity
He often mentions that luck favors those who are ready. -
Clutch performance defines legacy
His greatest impact came when the stakes were highest—playoffs and championships. -
Value of humility and roots
He acknowledges his background and the sacrifices of his family. -
Life continues after sport
Edelman has transitioned into media, podcasting, and public engagement— showing how athletic careers can evolve into new chapters.
Conclusion
Julian Edelman’s story is one of overcoming odds, redefining expectations, and shining brightest when it matters most. As a 7th-round pick turned Super Bowl MVP, he stands as proof that persistence, adaptability, and mental strength can elevate one’s impact beyond raw talent alone.
His legacy will likely be remembered not just for the numbers on stat sheets, but for the catches that changed games, the resilience he displayed, and the way he connected with teammates and fans.