Patriots Gridiron News: Julian Edelman makes air attack lethal again

Tom Brady has one of his top weapons back again and it showed Thursday night as the New England Patriots put up 38 points against the Indianapolis Colts.

When Julian Edelman stormed out that tunnel last Thursday night, there was a vibe in the air and anyone who felt that vibe knew the New England Patriots offense will be clicking once again.

After being away from the game for over 400 days, the former Kent State quarterback turned receiver stepped back on the field and gave Tom Brady that reliable slot receiver he has been missing.

In fact, it was obvious how much Brady and the offense missed and relied on Edelman in the first minutes of the 38-24 win over the Indianapolis Colts.  Brady went 9-for-9 to open the game, hitting a ramped-up Julian Edelman with the first completion of the game. Better yet, it was how Tom Brady once again spread the ball around with ease that showcased the importance of the man living up to the nickname of Minitron.

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Showing no signs of an ACL tear that keep him out of the game for the entire 2017 NFL season, Edelman was cutting and shifting as if he never left the game.  Not only was he creating separation, he returned punts so effectively that the team ended the second tenure of Cyrus Jones.  Edelman simply looked great and most importantly, he felt great.

"“I feel like I’m the best me right now,” Edelman said following the game.  “I’m living my best life.”"

If indeed that is the case (and it certainly looked like it) then watch out NFL.

With Rob Gronkowski healthy, James White doing what he does and Josh Gordon showing Randy Moss potential, Tom Brady may have his best set of weapons ever.

In 2007, he did have Moss, Wes Welker and Benjamin Watson at tight end, but Watson is no Gronkowski.  And no, Gordon is no Moss, but he’s a younger version of the Hall-of-Fame receiver who Brady made history with.

But, it all starts with Julian Edelman.  If nothing else, it is the intensity he plays the game with that makes the Patriots offense roll.  He has an unbelievable chemistry with Tom Brady and he is just tenacious on the field against any defender.

What’s scary about last Thursday night is the amount of plays and points the offense left out there on the field.  The offense will certainly get better and it will be lethal as long as injuries don’t get in the way and Josh Gordon can keep his personal life in check.

No more Cyrus Jones

As mentioned above, the New England Patriots have waived cornerback Cyrus Jones after recently re-signing him to a second stint with the team.

The news of his release was made official Saturday, clearing way for rumors that the team will most likely fill the roster spot with another running back, in particular Mike Gillislee.

With only Sony Michel and James White on the roster, it makes since for the team to bring in a bigger back type even if it isn’t Gillislee.  Michel has shown great ability as the lead back in the last two games, but as a rookie and player with previous knee issues, durability will eventually become an issue with him.

Also, with White’s importance in the passing game, the Patriots want to preserve him for that role rather than extending his reps on the ground.

As far as the punt return void left by Jones, it appears the New England Patriots are content with Julian Edelman retaining that role.