Patriots players past and present take to social media to honor Julian Edelman after his retirement

New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman had a unique NFL career. A former seventh-round draft pick who changed positions upon entering the league, he started his career as a role player in all three phases before finally breaking out during his fifth season as a pro — developing into an integral player within the Patriots’ offense.

Over the years that followed, Edelman helped New England win three Super Bowls and along the way was named to the Patriots’ Team of the 2010s and the Most Valuable Player of the 53rd title game. Not just that, he also earned the respect of those around him and the players who shared a uniform at one point in their careers together.

Let’s take a look at some of the reactions Edelman’s retirement generated on social media.

Patriots safety Devin McCourty

Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower

Patriots running back James White

Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore

Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones

Patriots linebacker Kyle Van Noy

Ex-Patriots quarterback Tom Brady

Ex-Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola

Ex-Patriots running back Rex Burkhead

Ex-Patriots wide receiver Chris Hogan

Ex-Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon