The New England Patriots announced their team captains ahead of Week 1 and Julian Edelman didn’t make that list.
He’s the most experienced wide receiver, and the most experienced player on the offensive side of the ball in New England. Edelman, 34, is heading into his 11th season and he’s never earned the prestigious title. This season was the perfect time to take that next step — but, Bill Belichick and the team had other players in mind.
The eight captains are Cam Newton, Matthew Slater, David Andrews, James White, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Lawrence Guy, Devin McCourty and Jason McCourty.
Edelman joined WEEI’s ‘The Greg Hill Show’ on Friday morning and addressed the fact he wasn’t named captain.
“I think leadership and all that stuff is conveyed in a whole bunch of ways,” Edelman said. “The guys that are captains are captains for a reason. Those guys are unbelievable men. I focus a lot on what I have to do and what I have to do to prepare myself and help my teammates. I am just ready for the season.”
Edelman will be the leader for the younger receivers and his voice will be heard all season long. After a crazy offseason, he’s just ready to get on the field and get to work.
“This is why we play the game, to play the games,” he said. “It’s been a crazy offseason on so many different levels. I think my safe place is going out and playing football, so I’m definitely excited. I am excited to see what this team — we have been working hard, we’ve been working together. It’s what you do it for, you do it to go out and play other teams and see what you’re made of. I’m extremely excited.”
New England’s Week 1 matchup is Sunday at home against the Miami Dolphins, where they face off with a slew of recent Patriots.
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