After 16 seasons with the New England Patriots, Matthew Slater has announced his retirement from professional football. The seven-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time Super Bowl champion leaves behind a legacy of excellence and leadership on and off the field.
Slater was known for his versatility as a special teams ace, making crucial plays that often went unnoticed by casual fans. His work ethic, dedication, and selflessness were admired by teammates and coaches alike. He was a true team player who always put the success of the team above personal accolades.
"Pats Nation, it has been an honor to represent the silver, red, white and blue for 16 years," Slater wrote. "Thank you for cheering, challenging and supporting our team each and every year. To the people of New England, thank you for welcoming my family and me into your community and allowing us to call New England home. We are beyond humbled and blessed. You the fans make an NFL player's experience what it is. Thank you for supporting not only me but our great game."
Slater was contemplating retirement last offseason, but ultimately decided to come back for one more season in 2023. The Patriots went above and beyond to honor Slater in Week 18, with the team rocking special No. 18 hoodies during pregame warmups. Slater's parents were also on hand, sharing a moment with their son on the field ahead of his final game in the NFL.
Slater's retirement comes after 16 seasons with the Patriots. He played in 239 regular-season games, which ranks second in franchise history behind only Tom Brady. And he played in 25 playoff games, winning three Super Bowls.
Team owner Robert Kraft said he expects Slater’s career to one day earn him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame alongside his father.
“Matthew Slater wasn’t just a special teams player for the Patriots. He was a special team player who helped us win three Super Bowls and made a positive impact on the many lives he touched, both on and off the field.” Kraft said in a statement.
Following the announcement, well wishes poured in across social media from Slater’s Patriots teammates, including Brady, who called him “one of a kind.”
Slater said his approach to the sport developed when he was a kid, visiting his grandparents in Meridian, Mississippi, and observing his father’s work ethic as he prepared for the Los Angeles Rams’ training camp.
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