New England Patriots Captain Matthew Slater Rejects Tanking: 'I Want to Win!'
With the New England Patriots season seemingly worsening with each passing week, the idea of just throwing in the proverbial white towel and tanking for a high NFL Draft pick is inevitably a thought on fans' minds.
As things currently stand, the Patriots would own the No. 3 pick with two games to spare between them and the No. 4 Chicago Bears.
The potential of holding a top pick in the upcoming draft has become a lone bright light in an otherwise dim season for the Patriots. However, even with the franchise looking set for a rebuild, and one that could aided by a top pick, a recent interview on WEEI's "Jones & Mego" show, team captain Matthew Slater revealed that he isn't done trying to win.
“I personally try to put myself in positions to understand everyone’s mode of thinking. I understand that rationale, I understand fans having an opinion or hopes and expectations of what we do,” Slater said about the idea of fans wanting the team to tank. “And I don’t have a problem with that. I’m not offended by it.
Sep 10, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Matthew Slater (18) on the sideline during the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Gillette Stadium.
Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
“I think as a player, though — especially a player in my situation — you realize opportunities in this league are never guaranteed. And, you know, as easy as it is for the fans or pundits to look ahead to the future, as a player your future is never guaranteed. especially for someone in my position. ... So, the idea of losing games or tanking will never appeal to players … I want to win the next six games.”
It isn't a surprising answer from Slater, who put off retirement for at least another year to play his 16th season. Yet, even with this season not going as the 38-year-old may have envisioned, the five-time first-team All-Pro and three-time Super Bowl champion remains hungry for more success.
The Patriots are 2-9 and, despite having no chance of finishing with a winning record, aren't officially eliminated from playoff contention yet. However, that could change with a loss on Sunday to the Los Angeles Chargers and some wins elsewhere.
Yet, even with the tiniest amount of hope still alive for a miraculous turnaround and a fanbase that wants to move on from a disastrous season, there is still plenty to play for in the case of the 10-time Pro Bowl special teamer.
Slater and co. hope to break their four-game winning streak as the Patriots host the Chargers on Sunday. Kickoff inside Gillette Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. EST.
