Julian Edelman Pays Tribute To James Develin After FB Announcing Retirement

The New England Patriots are parting ways with veteran fullback James Develin. Head coach Bill Belichick and wideout Julian Edelman released a statement on James Develin and his retirement.

“That light at the end of the tunnel ain’t no train,” Edelman wrote on Instagram. “It’s James Develin. Hellluva career bubs, gonna miss you in the trenches.”

This decision doesn’t come as a surprise. Develing spent a lot of time on injured reserve. He suffered a terrible neck injury and wasn’t able to give his best shot to the team. Ever since he became a Patriot, Develin provided great contribution to the team. Fans and players will miss his skills, and the Patriots nation will have to get used to the idea that Develin will retire.

Head coach Bill Belichick praises James Develin after his retirement

In his statement, Belichick said that Develin may be unsung in terms of his fame. But, he did admit that to his coaches and teammates Develin was appreciated and respected. For Belichick, Edelman was a tough, unselfish and dependable person who provides positive leadership every time he steps on the field. For the coach, Develin represented these qualities at a high level.

The fullback was a key player in Belichick’s team. His skills helped the team win games. Every time he joined his teammates on the field, the Patriots scored better. He helped them win three championships. According to Belichick, every NFL team needs a James Develin on the roster. Well, he also said that Develin was a rarity, adding that the Patriots were happy to have him.

New England will enter the 2020 NFL season with a renewed roster. A great number of players left the organization to sign a contract with different teams. Belichick cut Keionta Davis and Obi Melifonwu. He added some new names in the past few days.

The Patriots will play their first season without Tom Brady in two decades. Belichick will change his winning formula. He will also adjust the roster to the talents of Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer. The Patriots didn’t select a quarterback in the 2020 NFL Draft. Belichick is confident about his current players. Let’s see what happens in September.