New England Patriots: Julian Edelman No. 71 on ‘NFL Top 100’ list
New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman has cracked the top 75 on NFL Network’s “NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.”
Julian Edelman is finally getting some major props around the NFL. The New England Patriots was named the 71st best player in the league on NFL Network’s “NFL Top 100 Players of 2017,” making the jump from No. 87 in 2016.
While much of the list has yet to be revealed, Edelman is the fourth Patriots player to make the list so far. Cornerback Malcolm Butler came in at No. 99, linebacker Dont’a Hightower is ranked No. 94 and current free agent running back LeGarrette Blount is ranked No. 80.
Following a slow start to the 2017 season, Edelman bounced back strong with a 1000-year season. His toughness and big-play ability really shined during Super Bowl LI when he made one of the most amazing catches in Super Bowl history.
The catch helped catapult the Patriots 25-point comeback against the Atlanta Falcons. The play not only symbolized Julian Edelman’s dedication to the game, it also symbolized the player he has been throughout his career in New England.
Edelman commented on the ranking following the broadcast feeling he could’ve come in a little higher.
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"“It’s always cool to be in this and see what the other guys think of you,” Edelman said, via MassLive.com. “As a competitor you always think you should be better than what you are. You strive to be better. Thankfully, this is a good team spot I get to play and these things don’t justify the type of player you really are, I don’t think.”"
Overall, it is good to see Edelman getting the respect and recognition he deserves. Players like Houston Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson described him as a “tough cover” in the middle of the field, which he has proven season after season during his tenure in the NFL.
What’s in store for 2017
With the addition of wide receiver Brandin Cooks, along with the emergence of Malcolm Mitchell and Chris Hogan, Julian Edelman role could decrease. He will still be one of Tom Brady’s go-to targets, but he may not be as relied upon as he was during the end of last season once Rob Gronkowski went down.
Edelman is also on the other side of 30, so there could be a decline in his physical ability. But, with the way he approaches the game, he won’t lose a step in his competitive nature.
Next: New England Patriots: Brandin Cooks ‘excited’ to join powerful offense
In all, Julian Edelman could be a tougher cover with the weapons the team has.