Slater Salute: Patriots' Legend Announces Retirement
The saddest, worst-kept secret of the New England Patriots' offseason became a reality Tuesday morning as long-time special teams captain Matthew Slater officially announced his retirement.
Slater, 38, played 16 seasons with the Patriots and is likely headed for the team's Hall of Fame and potentially induction into Canton among the all-time greats in NFL history.
"In 2008 I came here as a young man with hopes and dreams," Slater said in a statement released through the team. "In 2024 I can retire knowing this experience has exceeded any hope or dream I ever had."
Slater was drafted by the Patriots as a receiver out of UCLA in 2008. He feared getting cut, so he instead honed his skills and directed his energy toward special teams. In 16 seasons, he made 10 Pro Bowls, eight All-Pro teams and won three Super Bowls in Foxboro.
Former coach Bill Belichick said last season he felt fortunate to coach the greatest players in NFL history at their specialties: Tom Brady (offense), Lawrence Taylor (defense) and Slater (special teams).
