New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots honored Julian Edelman by inducting him into their Hall of Fame on Saturday, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame could be next on Edelman’s list.
After Edelman’s enshrinement ceremony, reporters asked if he thinks he belongs in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
“It’s not for me to decide,” Edelman said Saturday. “I’m just going to enjoy this here in Foxborough.”
Edelman presents a compelling case for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, despite not making an All-Pro or Pro Bowl team during his 11-year career.
Edelman excelled in the postseason, recording 118 receptions for 1,442 yards and six touchdowns in 19 playoff games. He ranks third all-time in postseason receptions.
In Super Bowl LIII, Edelman showcased his talent with 10 receptions for 141 yards, led the Patriots to a 13-3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams, and earned the game’s MVP.
Eight wide receivers have won Super Bowl MVP, but only three of them are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Lynn Swann, Fred Biletnikoff and Jerry Rice. The other five receivers who have won the award, Deion Branch, Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes, Edelman and Cooper Kupp, who is still active, have not been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Edelman will become eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026. It will be interesting to see how the voters evaluate his entire body of work and whether they consider him worthy of induction into the most incredible honor in football.
