Julian Edelman#Personal life

Edelman was born in Redwood City, California, to Angela (née Gole) and Frank Edelman, a mechanic who owns A-1 Auto Tech.{{Cite web |last=Valkenburg |first=Kevin |date=February 19, 2015 |title=Julian Edelman enjoys his moment |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/12659571 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330205334/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/12659571 |archive-date=March 30, 2019 |access-date=July 12, 2020 |website=ESPN.com}} He has two siblings, Jason and Nicole.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman |url=http://www.patriots.com/team/roster/Julian-Edelman/1f41cf38-740b-4d2a-9109-7e13b48567e7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120131230846/http://www.patriots.com/team/roster/Julian-Edelman/1f41cf38-740b-4d2a-9109-7e13b48567e7 |archive-date=January 31, 2012 |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Patriots.com}}{{Cite web |last=Dupont |first=Kevin |date=January 17, 2014 |title=Julian Edelman took the 'back road' to the NFL |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2014/01/16/julian-edelman-took-back-road-nfl/Qbv5QnIQh9BpRn9ZetrSRO/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418182348/http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2014/01/16/julian-edelman-took-back-road-nfl/Qbv5QnIQh9BpRn9ZetrSRO/story.html |archive-date=April 18, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=BostonGlobe.com}} Edelman was raised as a Christian but has experienced what he described as a "Jewish awakening." In an NFL Network interview in December 2013, Edelman said that he was Jewish and celebrated Hanukkah.{{Cite web |last=Kaplan |first=Ron |date=September 21, 2009 |title=Edelman MOT? » Kaplan's Korner on Jews and Sports |url=http://njjewishnews.com/kaplanskorner/2009/09/21/edelman-mot/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108212449/http://njjewishnews.com/kaplanskorner/2009/09/21/edelman-mot/ |archive-date=November 8, 2014 |access-date=January 18, 2017 |website=New Jersey Jewish News}} His mother was born in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, to German parents who had lived in Belgium.Stated in Relentless: A Memoir, Julian Edelman, 2017, Hachette Books

Edelman played varsity football and baseball at Woodside High School in Woodside, California.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman's High School Timeline |url=https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/julian-edelman/8X8MOPTqEeKZ5AAmVebBJg/default.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127093225/https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/julian-edelman/8X8MOPTqEeKZ5AAmVebBJg/default.htm |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |access-date=November 19, 2020 |website=MaxPreps.com |language=en}} He was extremely small as a freshman, weighing under {{convert|100|lbs|kg}} before his growth spurt.{{Cite web |last=Stephens |first=Mitch |date=February 3, 2015 |title=Julian Edelman's drive was evident at Woodside High |url=https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/Julian-Edelman-s-drive-was-evident-at-Woodside-6057729.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126215431/https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/Julian-Edelman-s-drive-was-evident-at-Woodside-6057729.php |archive-date=November 26, 2020 |access-date=November 19, 2020 |website=SFChronicle.com |language=en-US}} Edelman was the quarterback for his high-school team, and as a senior he led the Wildcats to a 13–0 record in 2004.{{Cite web |title=Schedule – Woodside Wildcats 2004 Football (CA) |url=http://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/woodside-wildcats-(woodside,ca)/football-fall-04/schedule.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200428174600/https://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/woodside-wildcats-(woodside,ca)/football-fall-04/schedule.htm |archive-date=April 28, 2020 |access-date=December 11, 2018 |website=www.maxpreps.com}} In high school, Edelman threw for 2,237 yards and 29 touchdowns and rushed for 964 yards and 13 touchdowns.{{Cite news |last=Yang |first=Nicole |date=October 24, 2017 |title=5 things we learned from Julian Edelman's new memoir 'Relentless' |language=en-US |work=Boston.com |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2017/10/24/5-things-we-learned-from-julian-edelmans-new-memoir-relentless |url-status=live |access-date=December 25, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021155/https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2017/10/24/5-things-we-learned-from-julian-edelmans-new-memoir-relentless |archive-date=December 26, 2017}}

After high school, Edelman spent a year attending the College of San Mateo. There, he threw for 1,312 yards and 14 touchdowns and rushed for a school-record 1,253 yards and 17 touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=NFL Bulldogs |url=http://www.collegeofsanmateo.edu/football/alumni/alumni_nfl.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160507180714/http://www.collegeofsanmateo.edu/football/alumni/alumni_nfl.php |archive-date=May 7, 2016 |access-date=April 21, 2016 |website=College of San Mateo Bulldog Athletics |publisher=College of San Mateo}} Edelman then transferred to Kent State University, where he majored in business management.{{Cite web |last=Whaley |first=Ashley |date=October 13, 2015 |title=11 Fast Facts About Julian Edelman |url=https://www.kent.edu/magazine/news/11-fast-facts-about-julian-edelman |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215225950/https://www.kent.edu/magazine/news/11-fast-facts-about-julian-edelman |archive-date=December 15, 2018 |access-date=December 11, 2018 |website=www.kent.edu}} At Kent State, Edelman was a three-year starter at quarterback. During his senior year, Edelman was the Golden Flashes' leading passer, completing 153-of-275 passes for 1,820 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He was also their leading rusher, gaining 1,370 yards on 215 attempts (an average of 6.4 yards per carry) and scoring 13 touchdowns. His total offense broke Joshua Cribbs's single-season school record, set in 2003.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman, Kent State, NFL Draft |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1123460 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090428202221/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1123460 |archive-date=April 28, 2009 |access-date=May 3, 2009 |website=CBSSports.com}}{{Cite news |last=Whitmer |first=Michael |date=September 12, 2013 |title=Versatile Julian Edelman ready for his biggest role? |work=Boston Globe (online) |publisher=The New York Times Company |location=Boston MA |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/09/11/julian-edelman-evolving-into-patriots-versatile-standout/i2V7qCn0MwSJwK6JNmGjcJ/story.html |url-status=live |access-date=September 12, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130913101821/http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/09/11/julian-edelman-evolving-into-patriots-versatile-standout/i2V7qCn0MwSJwK6JNmGjcJ/story.html |archive-date=September 13, 2013}}

{{NFL predraft

| height ft = 5

| height in = 10 3/8

| weight = 195

| dash = 4.52

| ten split = 1.52

| twenty split = 2.58

| shuttle = 3.92

| cone drill = 6.62

| vertical = 36.5

| broad ft = 10

| broad in = 3

| bench = 14

| note = All values from Kent State Pro Day{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman |url=http://www.draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=67858&DraftYear=2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424135545/http://www.draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=67858&DraftYear=2009 |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=October 10, 2019 |publisher=draftscout.com}}

}}

Edelman was not invited to the 2009 NFL Combine. At his March 12 Pro Day, Edelman ran the short shuttle in 3.92 seconds; the fastest time at the Combine that year was 3.96 seconds.{{Cite web |title=National Football League: NFL Draft 2009 – Julian Edelman |url=http://www.nfl.com/draft/2011/profiles/julian-edelman?id=238498 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217203940/http://www.nfl.com/draft/2011/profiles/julian-edelman?id=238498 |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |title=NFL Events: Combine Top Performers |url=http://www.nfl.com/combine/top-performers#year=2009&workout=TWENTY_YARD_SHUTTLE&position=QB-RB-WR-TE-S-DL-LB-CB-OL-SPEC |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225200336/http://www.nfl.com/combine/top-performers#year=2009&workout=TWENTY_YARD_SHUTTLE&position=QB-RB-WR-TE-S-DL-LB-CB-OL-SPEC |archive-date=February 25, 2009 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=NFL.com}}

The New England Patriots, who had conducted private workouts with Edelman before the 2009 NFL draft, selected him with the 27th pick of the seventh round (232nd overall), ahead of Michigan State quarterback Brian Hoyer, who joined the Patriots as a free agent.{{Cite web |title=2009 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2009/draft.htm |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=November 3, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181103044935/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2009/draft.htm |url-status=live }} Several analysts suggested that the Patriots may have selected Edelman for his potential in a Wildcat formation;{{Cite web |last=Gosselin |first=Rick |date=April 27, 2009 |title=Non-combine players make their mark in draft |url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/042709dnspogosselin.323e458.html |access-date=July 27, 2009 |website=The Dallas Morning News}}{{Cite web |last=Farley |first=Glen |date=May 2, 2009 |title=It's QB or not QB at Pats camp |url=http://www.enterprisenews.com/sports/x921226440/It-s-QB-or-not-QB-at-Pats-camp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090513043606/http://www.enterprisenews.com/sports/x921226440/It-s-QB-or-not-QB-at-Pats-camp |archive-date=May 13, 2009 |access-date=July 27, 2009 |website=The Enterprise (Brockton)}} when the pick was made, he was announced as a wide receiver.A Football Life: Julian Edelman, NFL Films.

On July 16, 2009, Edelman signed a four-year contract with the Patriots that included a $48,700 signing bonus.{{Cite news |last=Gasper |first=Christopher |date=July 18, 2009 |title=Patriots beef up with Brace |work=The Boston Globe |url=http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/07/18/brace_signs_with_patriots/ |url-status=live |access-date=July 25, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304073132/http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/07/18/brace_signs_with_patriots/ |archive-date=March 4, 2016}} Edelman later stated that he knew he lacked the ability to make an NFL roster as a quarterback, so before the draft he prepared himself to play at positions other than quarterback.{{Cite web |date=February 11, 2019 |title=What Bill Belichick Told Julian Edelman When He Drafted Him In 2009 |url=https://nesn.com/2019/02/what-bill-belichick-told-julian-edelman-when-he-drafted-him-in-2009/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629160121/https://nesn.com/2019/02/what-bill-belichick-told-julian-edelman-when-he-drafted-him-in-2009/ |archive-date=June 29, 2021 |access-date=November 19, 2020 |website=NESN.com |language=en-US}} The BC Lions placed Edelman on their "negotiation list," a list of American players for which they have exclusive negotiating rights,{{Cite web |last=Beamish |first=Mike |date=February 3, 2017 |title=B.C. Lions saw the promise in Julian Edelman he's realizing in the NFL |url=https://vancouversun.com/sports/football/b-c-lions-saw-the-promise-in-julian-edelman-hes-realizing-in-the-nfl |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713035123/https://vancouversun.com/sports/football/b-c-lions-saw-the-promise-in-julian-edelman-hes-realizing-in-the-nfl |archive-date=July 13, 2021 |access-date=July 13, 2021 |website=vancouversun |language=en-CA}} and offered him a three-year, incentive-heavy contract to play quarterback.{{Cite web |last=Kryk |first=John |date=January 31, 2017 |title=Edelman turned down Lions' QB contract back in 2009 |url=https://torontosun.com/2017/01/31/edelman-turned-down-lions-qb-contract-back-in-2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713035124/https://torontosun.com/2017/01/31/edelman-turned-down-lions-qb-contract-back-in-2009 |archive-date=July 13, 2021 |access-date=July 13, 2021 |website=torontosun |language=en-CA}}

File:Julian Edelman.JPG

On August 13, 2009, in a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Edelman returned a punt 75 yards, and he made the team over former Eagles wide receiver Greg Lewis, for whom the Patriots had given up a fifth-round draft pick in 2009.{{Cite news |last=Reiss |first=Mike |date=August 14, 2009 |title=Julian Edelman punt return rewind |language=en |work=Boston.com |url=http://archive.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2009/08/edelman_punt_re.html |url-status=live |access-date=December 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171229112817/http://archive.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2009/08/edelman_punt_re.html |archive-date=December 29, 2017}}

Edelman missed the Patriots' Week 1 game against the Buffalo Bills due to an ankle injury, but he made his first career start in the Patriots' 16–9 loss in Week 2 against the New York Jets, which was also the first game Wes Welker had missed since becoming a Patriot in 2007. Edelman led all receivers with eight receptions for 98 yards and added 38 yards on two kickoff returns and two yards on a punt return, for a total of 138 all-purpose yards.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at New York Jets – September 20th, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200909200nyj.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021208/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200909200nyj.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

Edelman broke his arm in the Patriots' 59–0 rout of the Tennessee Titans, and did not accompany the Patriots on their trip to London to play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. At the time of his injury, Edelman was leading all rookies that season with 21 receptions. He returned with the Patriots' Week 10 game against the Indianapolis Colts, where he scored his first official NFL touchdown on a 9-yard reception from Tom Brady.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Indianapolis Colts – November 15th, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200911150clt.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021315/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200911150clt.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

When Welker was sidelined for the season after tearing two knee ligaments against the Houston Texans, Edelman was again called on to fill Welker's role; Edelman caught 10 of the 15 passes thrown to him for 103 yards, the first 100-yard game of his NFL career. He finished the regular season with 37 receptions for 359 yards and one touchdown. He also made six punt returns as well as 11 kickoff returns, gaining 304 yards in all on 17 returns.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Houston Texans – January 3rd, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201001030htx.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226094855/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201001030htx.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

In the Patriots' Wild Card Round playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens, Edelman caught six passes from Brady for 44 yards, including both of the Patriots' touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Wild Card – Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots – January 10th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201001100nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421154420/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201001100nwe.htm |archive-date=April 21, 2020 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Edelman became the first rookie to score two receiving touchdowns in one postseason game since David Sloan did so for the Detroit Lions in the 1995 season.{{Cite news |last=Amyx |first=Scott |date=September 22, 2017 |title=Story of Strive: Julian Edelman and the Art of Bouncing Back |work=Medium.com |url=https://medium.com/@ScottAmyx/story-of-strive-julian-edelman-and-the-art-of-bouncing-back-64e351cf6d2b |url-status=live |access-date=December 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171229171825/https://medium.com/@ScottAmyx/story-of-strive-julian-edelman-and-the-art-of-bouncing-back-64e351cf6d2b |archive-date=December 29, 2017}}

In the 2010 season, Edelman saw a decrease in playing time; through 15 games, he had four receptions for 14 yards. In the Week 17 game against the Miami Dolphins, with Welker, Deion Branch, and Aaron Hernandez inactive, Edelman capitalized with three receptions for 72 yards and a 94-yard punt return touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots – January 2nd, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101020nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021301/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101020nwe.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} It was the first punt return touchdown by a Patriot in the regular season since Troy Brown returned one against the Carolina Panthers in the Week 17 of the 2001 season, and the longest punt return in Patriots franchise history, eclipsing an 89-yard return by Mike Haynes in 1976.{{Cite web |date=January 2, 2011 |title=Game Notes: Patriots vs. Dolphins |url=http://www.patriots.com/news/index.cfm?ac=pressreleasesdetail&pid=47072&pcid=47 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110511213325/http://www.patriots.com/news/index.cfm?ac=pressreleasesdetail&pid=47072&pcid=47 |archive-date=May 11, 2011 |access-date=January 2, 2011 |website=New England Patriots}}

Edelman set a franchise record by averaging 15.3 yards per return,{{Cite web |last=Kalman |first=Matt |date=August 6, 2011 |title=WR Julian Edelman returns for more |url=http://bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1356752 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121009071356/http://bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1356752 |archive-date=October 9, 2012 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=bostonherald.com}} which was second in the league after the Bears' Devin Hester.{{Cite web |last=Farley |first=Glen |date=December 1, 2011 |title=Secondary education continues with Patriots for versatile Edelman |url=http://www.patriotledger.com/sports/pros/x578417121/Secondary-education-continues-with-Patriots-for-versatile-Edelman |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017061734/http://www.patriotledger.com/sports/pros/x578417121/Secondary-education-continues-with-Patriots-for-versatile-Edelman |archive-date=October 17, 2013 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=The Patriot Ledger, Quincy, MA}} For the 2010 season, Edelman played in 15 games with seven receptions for 86 yards and 321 return yards on 21 punt return opportunities.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2010 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2010/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171217014753/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2010/ |archive-date=December 17, 2017 |access-date=December 16, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the Divisional Round against the New York Jets, Edelman had a 12-yard reception in the 28–21 loss.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – New York Jets at New England Patriots – January 16th, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101160nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171217014406/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201101160nwe.htm |archive-date=December 17, 2017 |access-date=February 7, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

During the 2011 season, Edelman was used primarily as a kick and punt returner. During the Patriots' Week 10 game against the New York Jets, because of injuries to the Patriots' secondary, he was pressed into service as a defensive back during the fourth quarter; he earned his first tackle on defense by stopping running back LaDainian Tomlinson on a play in which Tomlinson injured his knee.{{Cite web |last=Cox |first=Zack |date=November 15, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman Recalls Injuring LaDainian Tomlinson During Stint As Cornerback |url=https://nesn.com/2017/11/julian-edelman-recalls-injuring-ladainian-tomlinson-during-stint-as-cornerback/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215223302/https://nesn.com/2017/11/julian-edelman-recalls-injuring-ladainian-tomlinson-during-stint-as-cornerback/ |archive-date=December 15, 2018 |access-date=December 11, 2018 |website=NESN.com |language=en}}

During the Patriots' Week 11 game on Monday Night Football against the Kansas City Chiefs, he played defensive back in nickel and dime situations. He also returned a punt 72 yards for a touchdown, which helped him earn his first AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award.{{Cite web |title=Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots – November 21st, 2011 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111210nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021704/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111210nwe.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 12, he was nominated for the NFL's "Hardest Working Man" for his Week 12 performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, in which he made an open-field tackle on Vince Young to prevent a touchdown.{{Cite web |date=November 28, 2011 |title=Who went above and beyond the call of duty in Week 12? |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/who-went-above-and-beyond-the-call-of-duty-in-week-12-09000d5d8248edf9 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217203405/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8248edf9/article/who-went-above-and-beyond-the-call-of-duty-in-week-12?module=HP11_cp |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=NFL.com}} For the 2011 season, Edelman played 13 games with four receptions for 34 yards and 584 return yards on 40 kickoff and punt returns.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2011/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021259/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2011/ |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

In the AFC Championship, on January 22, 2012, against the Baltimore Ravens, Edelman played on 27 of 67 offensive snaps at wide receiver, catching one pass that converted a third down attempt, and 27 of 73 defensive snaps at cornerback, often covering the Ravens' Anquan Boldin; Edelman was credited with a forced fumble on the Ravens' final drive.{{Cite web |title=AFC Championship – Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots – January 22nd, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201220nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226034801/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201220nwe.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Patriots went on to win the AFC Championship, but lost Super Bowl XLVI to the New York Giants. Edelman had three kickoff returns for 73 net return yards in the game.{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl XLVI – New York Giants vs. New England Patriots – February 5th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201202050nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190323020537/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201202050nwe.htm |archive-date=March 23, 2019 |access-date=December 6, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

Edelman's snap count increased in the first two games of the 2012 season, including a Week 2 home loss to the Arizona Cardinals in which he started over Wes Welker.{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals at New England Patriots – September 16th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209160nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021333/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209160nwe.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} After suffering a hand injury in the Patriots' Week 3 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, Edelman was inactive for the next three games.{{Cite web |last=Berry |first=Zuri |date=October 24, 2012 |title=Julian Edelman getting back into the swing of things |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/extra-points/2012/10/24/julian_edelman_2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127040100/https://www.boston.com/sports/extra-points/2012/10/24/julian_edelman_2 |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |access-date=November 19, 2020 |website=Boston.com |language=en-US}} He then saw limited duty until the Patriots' record-tying Week 11 win against the Indianapolis Colts, in which he had one of the best games of his career.{{Cite web |last=Whitmer |first=Michael |date=November 18, 2012 |title=Julian Edelman enjoys career day in Patriots' rout |url=http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/2012/11/19/julian-edelman-enjoys-career-day-patriots-rout/wAoIkBACLpG9a7zsO08hvK/story.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121128170354/http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/2012/11/19/julian-edelman-enjoys-career-day-patriots-rout/wAoIkBACLpG9a7zsO08hvK/story.html |archive-date=November 28, 2012 |website=Boston.com}} Edelman caught five passes for 58 yards and a two-yard touchdown, picked up 47 yards on a single rushing attempt on a reverse play, and returned two punts for a total of 117 yards. The first of those punt returns was a 68-yard punt return for a touchdown, giving Edelman three punt return touchdowns, tying the Patriots franchise mark. Edelman had 105 yards of total offense and 222 all-purpose yards with two touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots – November 18th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201211180nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171228171700/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201211180nwe.htm |archive-date=December 28, 2017 |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

Four days later, on Thanksgiving Day, Edelman scored two more touchdowns in the second quarter of the Patriots' victory over the New York Jets, in which they tied a franchise record with five touchdowns and 35 points in one quarter; he recovered a Jets' fumble and returned it 22 yards on a kickoff return, and then caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Tom Brady.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at New York Jets – November 22nd, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201211220nyj.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021442/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201211220nyj.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Although he left early in the third quarter with a head injury, he became the first player since the AFL–NFL merger with both a receiving touchdown and a return touchdown in consecutive games. In a game against the Miami Dolphins on December 2, Edelman broke his right foot and was placed on injured reserve. He missed the remainder of the season.{{Cite web |last=Lundblad |first=Jeremy |date=November 23, 2012 |title=New England Patriots' offense by the numbers |url=https://www.espn.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/8665401/new-england-patriots-offense-numbers |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217203851/http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/8665401/new-england-patriots-offense-numbers |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=ESPN.com}} Overall in 2012, Edelman played in nine games with 21 receptions for 235 yards and 301 return yards on 20 kickoff-punt combined return opportunities.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2012 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2012/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226094907/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2012/ |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

File:Julian Edelman in October 2013 (cropped1).jpg in 2013]]

Edelman became a free agent after the 2012 season. He re-signed with New England on a one-year deal on April 10, 2013.{{Cite web |last=Yates |first=Field |author-link=Field Yates |date=April 10, 2013 |title=Source: Pats, Edelman reach 1-year deal |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4741973/source-pats-edelman-reach-1-year-deal |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217203913/http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4741973/source-pats-edelman-reach-1-year-deal |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=ESPN.com}}

During the 2013 season opener, Edelman scored both of New England's touchdowns in the narrow 23–21 victory over the Buffalo Bills. He also had three punt returns for a total of 32 yards, which gave him a career total of 75 returns for 975 yards.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills – September 8th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309080buf.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021802/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309080buf.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Edelman became the NFL's all-time leader in career punt return average, with 13.0 yards per return, surpassing the 12.8-yard average of former Chicago Bear George McAfee, although his average dropped below 12.8 shortly afterward.{{Cite web |last=Whitmer |first=Michael |date=September 9, 2013 |title=Kyle Arrington comes up big twice for Patriots |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/09/08/kyle-arrington-comes-big-twice-for-patriots-defense/st8QVsY9TCPDhnErNyn07L/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150501160950/http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/09/08/kyle-arrington-comes-big-twice-for-patriots-defense/st8QVsY9TCPDhnErNyn07L/story.html |archive-date=May 1, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=BostonGlobe.com}}

Edelman had nine catches on 11 attempts for 110 yards and two touchdowns in a historic Week 12 comeback victory at home over the Denver Broncos; the Patriots overcame a 24-point halftime deficit, scored 31 unanswered points, and kicked the winning field goal in the closing minutes of overtime. Edelman outperformed Denver's triplet star wide receivers combined.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at New England Patriots – November 24th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311240nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222050622/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311240nwe.htm |archive-date=December 22, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 17, Edelman became the third Patriots player in team history to catch over 100 passes in a season in the Patriots' 34–20 win over the Buffalo Bills in their second divisional matchup.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman's 100-Catch, 1,000-Yard Season for Patriots Came After Fighting His Way Up Depth Chart - New England Patriots - NESN.com |url=http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/julian_edelmans_100_catch_1000_yard_season_for_patriots_did_not_come_easy/15416818 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140101095146/http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/julian_edelmans_100_catch_1000_yard_season_for_patriots_did_not_come_easy/15416818 |archive-date=January 1, 2014 |access-date=December 31, 2013 |website=NESN.com}} 2013 became a breakout season for Edelman as he played in all 16 games making 105 receptions for 1,056 yards and 35 punt return opportunities for 374 yards.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2013/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021724/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2013/ |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Patriots won the AFC East and faced the Indianapolis Colts in the Divisional Round. In the 43–22 victory, Edelman had six receptions for 84 yards.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots – January 11th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201401110nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114202612/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201401110nwe.htm |archive-date=November 14, 2017 |access-date=February 7, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the AFC Championship against the Denver Broncos, he had 10 receptions for 89 yards in the 26–16 loss.{{Cite web |title=AFC Championship – New England Patriots at Denver Broncos – January 19th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201401190den.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115030647/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201401190den.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2017 |access-date=February 7, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

File:Julian Edelman 2014.JPG in Denver in January 2014]]

Edelman became a free agent after the 2013 season. On March 15, 2014, he re-signed with the Patriots on a four-year deal for $17 million.{{Cite web |last=Kyed |first=Doug |date=March 18, 2014 |title=Report: Julian Edelman's Patriots Contract For Four Years, $17 Million |url=https://nesn.com/2014/03/report-julian-edelman-signs-four-year-17-million-contract-with-patriots/ |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=NESN.com |language=en-US |archive-date=November 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129204559/https://nesn.com/2014/03/report-julian-edelman-signs-four-year-17-million-contract-with-patriots/ |url-status=live }}

Edelman started 14 games for the Patriots in 2014. He had 92 receptions for 972 receiving yards, as well as four touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2014/ |url-status=live |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=May 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505025357/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2014/ }} In a Week 9 matchup against the Denver Broncos, Edelman returned a punt 84 yards for his fourth career return touchdown, passing Troy Brown for the most punt return touchdowns in Patriots history.{{Cite web |date=November 2, 2014 |title=Tom Brady, Patriots dominate Broncos |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000422089/article/tom-brady-patriots-dominate-broncos |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141107115955/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000422089/article/tom-brady-patriots-dominate-broncos |archive-date=November 7, 2014 |access-date=November 6, 2014 |website=NFL.com}} In a Week 14 game against the San Diego Chargers, Edelman caught a pass from Tom Brady then broke two tackles and ran for 69 yards for a touchdown; it was the final touchdown of the game that led the Patriots to a 23–14 win.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at San Diego Chargers – December 7th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201412070sdg.htm |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=December 28, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171228171603/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201412070sdg.htm |url-status=live }}

The Patriots won the AFC East and returned to the playoffs. Edelman recorded his first NFL touchdown pass on his first NFL pass attempt in the Patriots' Divisional Round game against the Baltimore Ravens. After receiving a lateral pass from Brady, Edelman threw a forward pass to Danny Amendola, who scored a 51-yard touchdown to tie the game at 28–28.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots – January 10th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201501100nwe.htm |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226021752/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201501100nwe.htm |url-status=live }} In the AFC Championship against the Indianapolis Colts, he had nine receptions for 98 receiving yards in the 45–7 victory.{{Cite web |title=AFC Championship – Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots – January 18th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201501180nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201134029/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201501180nwe.htm |archive-date=December 1, 2017 |access-date=February 7, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

In Super Bowl XLIX against the Seattle Seahawks, Edelman led all receivers in yardage with 109 yards on nine receptions (teammate Shane Vereen had 11 receptions). His touchdown reception with 2:02 left in the fourth quarter—his only touchdown reception of the postseason—was the final go-ahead score of the game, putting the Patriots up 28–24. For the postseason as a whole, Edelman led all receivers in both receptions (26) and receiving yards (281).{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl XLIX – Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots – February 1st, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201502010sea.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180130034220/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201502010sea.htm |archive-date=January 30, 2018 |access-date=February 7, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was ranked 91st by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2015.{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2015-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=May 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220525110036/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2015-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live }}

On September 10, Edelman started for the Patriots against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the season-opening game on Thursday Night Football. He led the Patriots in yards and receptions, recording 11 receptions for 97 yards, in the 28–21 victory.{{Cite web |title=Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots – September 10th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201509100nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110061623/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201509100nwe.htm |archive-date=November 10, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the Patriots' second game of the season against the Buffalo Bills, Edelman got 11 catches, which made it the first time in his career he had back-to-back games with at least 10 catches. Edelman then caught four passes on five targets for 120 yards against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman Career Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00.htm |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=January 30, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190130212946/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00.htm |url-status=live }}

Against the New York Giants on November 15, Edelman suffered an injury to his fifth metatarsal on his left foot that required him to undergo foot surgery on November 16, 2015.{{Cite web |last=Rosenthal |first=Gregg |date=November 15, 2015 |title=Julian Edelman suffers broken foot, could return |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/patriots-julian-edelman-to-miss-6-8-weeks-0ap3000000580895 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117033303/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000580895/article/julian-edelman-suffers-broken-foot-could-return |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |access-date=November 16, 2015 |website=NFL.com}} He was expected to be back on the field in six to eight weeks, in time for the playoffs, though that was contingent on the recovery process.{{cite web | last=Patra | first=Kevin | title=Julian Edelman could return Week 17 for Patriots | website=NFL.com | date=2015-12-20 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/julian-edelman-could-return-week-17-for-patriots-0ap3000000604813 | access-date=2025-02-19}} Through nine games, Edelman had made 61 catches for 692 yards and seven touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2015 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2015/ |url-status=live |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=April 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416115347/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2015/ }} Edelman returned for the Divisional Round against the Kansas City Chiefs. Edelman had 10 catches for 100 yards to help the Patriots defeat the Chiefs 27–20 and advance to the AFC Championship game for the fifth consecutive year.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots – January 16th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201601160nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226094852/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201601160nwe.htm |archive-date=December 26, 2017 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the AFC Championship, Edelman had 7 receptions for 53 yards, but the Patriots lost 20–18 to the Denver Broncos.{{Cite web |title=AFC Championship – New England Patriots at Denver Broncos – January 24th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201601240den.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002134303/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201601240den.htm |archive-date=October 2, 2020 |access-date=December 25, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} For his efforts in 2015, Edelman was ranked 87th on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.{{Cite web |title=2016 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2016-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=January 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210108032657/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2016-nfl-top-100.htm }}

On September 15, 2016, Edelman was fined $26,309 for a hit on a defenseless player when he hit linebacker Deone Bucannon helmet-to-helmet.{{Cite web |last=Dzen |first=Gary |date=September 15, 2016 |title=Watch the hit the NFL is fining Julian Edelman $26,000 for |url=http://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2016/09/15/watch-the-hit-the-nfl-is-fining-julian-edelman-26000-for |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918005604/http://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2016/09/15/watch-the-hit-the-nfl-is-fining-julian-edelman-26000-for |archive-date=September 18, 2016 |access-date=September 15, 2016 |website=boston.com}} In Week 13, against the Los Angeles Rams, he had eight receptions for 101 yards in the 26–10 victory.{{Cite web |title=Los Angeles Rams at New England Patriots – December 4th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201612040nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171228173143/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201612040nwe.htm |archive-date=December 28, 2017 |access-date=February 7, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the regular-season, Edelman got a block by newcomer wide receiver Michael Floyd on a catch and run that led to a career-long 77-yard touchdown in a 35–14 road victory over the Miami Dolphins.{{Cite web |last=Cox, Zack |date=January 1, 2017 |title=Michael Floyd Delivers Block Of The Year To Spring Julian Edelman For Touchdown |url=http://nesn.com/2017/01/michael-floyd-delivers-block-of-the-year-to-spring-julian-edelman-for-touchdown/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170102141431/http://nesn.com/2017/01/michael-floyd-delivers-block-of-the-year-to-spring-julian-edelman-for-touchdown/ |archive-date=January 2, 2017 |access-date=January 2, 2017 |website=NESN.com}} He finished the game with eight receptions for 151 yards, earning him AFC Offensive Player of the Week.{{Cite web |date=January 4, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman named AFC Offensive Player of the Week |url=http://www.patriots.com/news/2017/01/04/julian-edelman-named-afc-offensive-player-week |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170105181210/http://www.patriots.com/news/2017/01/04/julian-edelman-named-afc-offensive-player-week |archive-date=January 5, 2017 |access-date=January 5, 2017 |website=Patriots.com}} He became the first Patriots wide receiver to receive the award since Randy Moss in 2007.{{Cite web |last=Reiss |first=Mike |date=January 4, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman first Patriots WR to earn weekly award since Randy Moss |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4799378/julian-edelman-earns-afc-offensive-player-of-the-week-honor |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118052618/http://www.espn.com/blog/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4799378/julian-edelman-earns-afc-offensive-player-of-the-week-honor |archive-date=January 18, 2017 |access-date=January 18, 2017 |website=ESPN.com}} He finished the season with 98 receptions for a career-high 1,106 yards and 12 touchdowns. For his efforts in 2017, Edelman was ranked 71st by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.{{Cite web |title=2017 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2017-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=September 29, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170929231923/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2017-nfl-top-100.htm }}

In the Patriots' Divisional Round victory against the Houston Texans, Edelman caught his 70th postseason pass, breaking Wes Welker's Patriots franchise record. Edelman recorded eight catches for 137 yards in the win{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Houston Texans at New England Patriots – January 14th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201701140nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203061940/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201701140nwe.htm |archive-date=December 3, 2018 |access-date=March 6, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} as the Patriots reached the AFC Championship Game for an NFL record sixth consecutive season. In the AFC Championship, Edelman caught eight passes for 118 yards in the 36–17 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.{{Cite web |title=AFC Championship – Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots – January 22nd, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201701220nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110114517/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201701220nwe.htm |archive-date=November 10, 2017 |access-date=March 6, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Patriots advanced to an NFL record ninth Super Bowl appearance.

During Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons, Edelman made five catches for 87 yards.{{Cite web |last=Pollakof |first=Brett |date=February 6, 2017 |title=Sunday's 10 best Super Bowl performances, ranked |url=http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/gallery/sundays-10-best-super-bowl-performances-ranked-020617 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123010343/https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/gallery/sundays-10-best-super-bowl-performances-ranked-020617 |archive-date=January 23, 2019 |access-date=February 5, 2019 |website=FOX Sports}} The highlight was an unusually difficult catch in the fourth quarter, where the pass was first tipped into the air by cornerback Robert Alford and it appeared that it would fall incomplete, but Edelman and three defenders (Alford, Ricardo Allen, and Keanu Neal) lunged at the ball, and, after it bounced off Alford's leg, Edelman made the reception just inches above the ground. It was ruled a catch on the field and withstood a challenge from Falcons head coach Dan Quinn. NFL Films called the play, which was chosen for the cover of Sports Illustrated,{{Cite news |date=February 7, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman featured on cover of SI's Super Bowl issue |work=SI.com |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/02/07/julian-edelman-patriots-super-bowl-sports-illustrated-cover |url-status=live |access-date=September 11, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911114746/https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/02/07/julian-edelman-patriots-super-bowl-sports-illustrated-cover |archive-date=September 11, 2017}} "the greatest catch in Super Bowl history".{{Cite web |date=September 6, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman Makes the Greatest Catch in Super Bowl History {{!}} Do Your Job II {{!}} NFL Films |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRWl73-L3L0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501092250/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRWl73-L3L0&gl=US&hl=en |archive-date=May 1, 2020 |access-date=September 11, 2017 |website=YouTube.com |publisher=NFL Films}} Edelman's catch sustained a historic comeback for the Patriots, who trailed the Falcons 28–3 late in the third quarter before winning 34–28 in overtime.{{Cite web |last=Wesseling |first=Chris |date=February 5, 2017 |title=New England Patriots win Super Bowl LI |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/patriots-erase-deficit-defeat-falcons-in-super-bowl-li-0ap3000000783692 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206032912/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000783692/article/patriots-erase-deficit-defeat-falcons-in-super-bowl-li |archive-date=February 6, 2017 |access-date=February 5, 2017 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite news |last=Clarke |first=Liz |date=February 6, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman's Super Bowl miracle catch gives Patriots answer to David Tyree |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/julian-edleman-catch-was-key-to-the-patriots-comeback/2017/02/06/041de6c0-ec2b-11e6-9973-c5efb7ccfb0d_story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205083610/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/julian-edleman-catch-was-key-to-the-patriots-comeback/2017/02/06/041de6c0-ec2b-11e6-9973-c5efb7ccfb0d_story.html |archive-date=December 5, 2020 |access-date=September 29, 2022 |newspaper=Washington Post}}{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl LI – New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons – February 5th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201702050atl.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807022152/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201702050atl.htm |archive-date=August 7, 2017 |access-date=August 6, 2017 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com}} However, Edelman later stated that he does not like to be reminded of the catch or watch it on replay because it resulted from his own error in running the route.{{Cite web | url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdP6tyEzhfE&t=5418s | title = JULIAN EDELMAN TELLS US A JOKE THAT GOT CUT FROM THE TOM BRADY ROAST + REIGNING BOTY BLAKE BORTLES | access-date = May 16, 2024 | website = Youtube.com| date = May 13, 2024 }}

On June 8, 2017, Edelman signed a two-year, $11 million contract extension with the Patriots, with $9 million guaranteed through the 2019 season.{{Cite web |date=June 8, 2017 |title=Patriots, Julian Edelman agree on contract extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/patriots-julian-edelman-agree-on-contract-extension-0ap3000000814067 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424120509/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000814067/article/patriots-julian-edelman-agree-on-contract-extension |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=NFL.com}} On August 25, in the team's third preseason game against the Detroit Lions, Edelman tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), ending his season before it even started.{{Cite web |date=August 26, 2017 |title=Patriots' Julian Edelman out for season with torn ACL |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/patriots-julian-edelman-out-for-season-with-torn-acl-0ap3000000834786 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424134252/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000834786/article/patriots-lose-julian-edelman-torn-acl-for-season |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |date=August 26, 2017 |title=Tom Brady, others react to Julian Edelman's torn ACL |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tom-brady-others-react-to-julian-edelman-s-torn-acl-0ap3000000834790 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827050053/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000834790/article/tom-brady-others-react-to-julian-edelmans-torn-acl |archive-date=August 27, 2017 |access-date=August 26, 2017 |website=NFL.com}} He was placed on injured reserve on September 2, 2017.{{Cite web |date=September 2, 2017 |title=Patriots reach 53-man limit |url=http://www.patriots.com/news/2017/09/02/patriots-reach-53-man-limit |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171128033226/http://www.patriots.com/news/2017/09/02/patriots-reach-53-man-limit |archive-date=November 28, 2017 |website=Patriots.com}} Without Edelman, the Patriots finished 13–3 and reached Super Bowl LII,{{Cite web |title=2017 New England Patriots Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nwe/2017.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424120958/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nwe/2017.htm |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=March 6, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} where they lost to the Philadelphia Eagles, 41–33.{{Cite web |last=Jones |first=Lindsay H. |date=February 4, 2018 |title=Eagles dethrone Tom Brady, Patriots for first Super Bowl title in stunner |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/super/2018/02/04/super-bowl-2018-score-philadelphia-eagles-new-england-patriots/305840002/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190805065543/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/super/2018/02/04/super-bowl-2018-score-philadelphia-eagles-new-england-patriots/305840002/ |archive-date=August 5, 2019 |access-date=December 11, 2018 |website=USA TODAY |language=en}}

In February 2018, it was reported that Edelman expected to be ready to play by the 2018 training camp.{{Cite web |last=Hannable |first=Ryan |date=February 26, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman showing more encouraging signs returning from torn ACL |url=http://www.weei.com/blogs/ryan-hannable/julian-edelman-showing-more-encouraging-signs-returning-torn-acl |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180502141420/http://www.weei.com/blogs/ryan-hannable/julian-edelman-showing-more-encouraging-signs-returning-torn-acl |archive-date=May 2, 2018 |access-date=May 1, 2018 |website=WEEI.com |publisher=WEEI}} On June 7, it was announced that Edelman was expected to be suspended for four games due to a violation of the policy against using performance-enhancing drugs.{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=June 7, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman facing four-game suspension for PEDs |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/julian-edelman-facing-four-game-suspension-for-peds-0ap3000000936252 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424224041/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000936252/article/julian-edelman-facing-fourgame-suspension-for-peds |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=NFL.com}} On June 26, Edelman appealed the suspension;{{Cite web |last=Konblauch |first=Austin |date=June 25, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman appeals four-game suspension for PEDs |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/julian-edelman-appeals-four-game-suspension-for-peds-0ap3000000938307 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627034505/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000938307/article/julian-edelman-appeals-fourgame-suspension-for-peds |archive-date=June 27, 2018 |access-date=June 26, 2018 |publisher=NFL}} on July 3, his appeal was denied. Edelman missed the first four games of the season and was activated on October 2. He played on Thursday Night Football against the Indianapolis Colts, where he caught seven passes for 57 yards.{{Cite web |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |date=July 3, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman's appeal of four-game suspension denied |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000939445/article/julian-edelmans-appeal-of-fourgame-suspension-denied |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424223913/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000939445/article/julian-edelmans-appeal-of-fourgame-suspension-denied |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=NFL.com}} In Week 8, against the Buffalo Bills, he had nine receptions for 104 yards in the victory on Monday Night Football.{{Cite web |date=October 29, 2018 |title=Patriots' Julian Edelman: Tops century mark versus Bills |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/patriots-julian-edelman-tops-century-mark-versus-bills/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215172526/https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/patriots-julian-edelman-tops-century-mark-versus-bills/ |archive-date=December 15, 2018 |access-date=December 11, 2018 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}} Two weeks later in a loss to the Tennessee Titans, he posted nine receptions for 104 yards once again.{{Cite web |last=McKenna |first=Henry |date=November 12, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman on loss to Titans: 'You better learn from a game like this' |url=https://patriotswire.usatoday.com/2018/11/12/julian-edelman-on-loss-to-titans-you-better-learn-from-a-game-like-this/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424134257/https://patriotswire.usatoday.com/2018/11/12/julian-edelman-on-loss-to-titans-you-better-learn-from-a-game-like-this/ |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=December 11, 2018 |website=Patriots Wire |language=en}} On December 29, Edelman was fined $63,504 for three personal foul penalties in Week 16.{{Cite web |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=December 29, 2018 |title=Roundup: Julian Edelman fined $63K for penalties |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/roundup-julian-edelman-fined-63k-for-penalties-0ap3000001004922 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181230081020/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001004922/article/roundup-julian-edelman-fined-63k-for-penalties |archive-date=December 30, 2018 |access-date=December 29, 2018 |website=NFL.com}} He finished the 2018 season with 74 receptions for 850 yards and six touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2018 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190130212946/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00.htm |archive-date=January 30, 2019 |access-date=January 24, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Patriots finished with an 11–5 record and earned the #2 seed in the AFC in the playoffs.{{Cite web |title=2018 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/index.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190320205744/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/index.htm |archive-date=March 20, 2019 |access-date=January 24, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

In the Divisional Round against the Los Angeles Chargers, Edelman had nine receptions for 151 yards during the Patriots' 41–28 victory.{{Cite web |last=Bird |first=Hayden |date=January 13, 2019 |title=Julian Edelman moved up to second all-time in NFL postseason receptions |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2019/01/13/julian-edelman-nfl-playoff-receptions-leaders-all-time |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115235032/https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2019/01/13/julian-edelman-nfl-playoff-receptions-leaders-all-time |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |access-date=January 24, 2019 |website=Boston.com |language=en-US}} During the AFC Championship against the Kansas City Chiefs, he had seven receptions for 96 yards in the 37–31 overtime road victory, including two catches on 3rd-and-long situations to keep the eventual game-winning drive in overtime going.{{Cite web |date=January 21, 2019 |title=Patriots' Julian Edelman: Totals 96 receiving yards |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/patriots-julian-edelman-totals-96-receiving-yards/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124203855/https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/patriots-julian-edelman-totals-96-receiving-yards/ |archive-date=January 24, 2019 |access-date=January 24, 2019 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en}} In Super Bowl LIII, in a 13–3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams, Edelman caught 10 passes on 12 targets for 141 yards, an effort for which he was named Most Valuable Player (MVP). He became the first wide receiver to win Super Bowl MVP since Santonio Holmes did so in Super Bowl XLIII in 2009.{{Cite web |last=Legwold |first=Jeff |date=February 4, 2019 |title=Edelman 7th WR to win MVP after 10-catch night |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25919634 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190207015317/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25919634 |archive-date=February 7, 2019 |access-date=March 6, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} Edelman finished the postseason with 26 receptions for 388 yards, totals high enough to move him into second place all-time in playoff receptions and receiving yards behind Jerry Rice.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190208000640/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00.htm |archive-date=February 8, 2019 |access-date=February 5, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Edelman was the first Jewish football player to be named Super Bowl MVP.{{Cite web |date=February 4, 2019 |title=Jerusalem Post Diaspora Julian Edelman Makes History as first Jewish Super Bowl MVP |url=https://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/Julian-Edelman-is-Super-Bowl-MVP-579607 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191010112301/https://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/Julian-Edelman-is-Super-Bowl-MVP-579607 |archive-date=October 10, 2019 |access-date=February 5, 2019 |website=jpost |publisher=The Jerusalem Post}}

Edelman's MVP award drew criticism as it came in the same season he was suspended for using an unspecified performance-enhancing substance.{{Cite news |last=Felt |first=Hunter |date=February 5, 2019 |title=Julian Edelman's Super Bowl MVP reveals the NFL's selective morality |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/feb/05/julian-edelmans-super-bowl-mvp-award-ped-suspension |url-status=live |access-date=February 16, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215135216/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/feb/05/julian-edelmans-super-bowl-mvp-award-ped-suspension |archive-date=February 15, 2019 |issn=0261-3077}}{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Phil |date=February 5, 2019 |title=Devin Hester calls out Super Bowl MVP Julian Edelman for his PED use |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-bears-devin-hester-julian-edelman-patriots-ped-20190205-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190216072509/https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-bears-devin-hester-julian-edelman-patriots-ped-20190205-story.html |archive-date=February 16, 2019 |access-date=February 16, 2019 |website=chicagotribune.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Armour |first=Nancy |date=February 4, 2019 |title=Opinion: Super Bowl MVP Julian Edelman shouldn't even have been playing in the game |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/nancy-armour/2019/02/03/super-bowl-2019-mvp-julian-edelman-suspension/2765697002/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215131453/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/nancy-armour/2019/02/03/super-bowl-2019-mvp-julian-edelman-suspension/2765697002/ |archive-date=February 15, 2019 |access-date=February 16, 2019 |website=USA TODAY |language=en}} The NFL prohibits players suspended for PED use from receiving awards given by the league or the NFL Players' Association.{{Cite web |last=Volin |first=Ben |date=June 11, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman case is rife with questions; here are some answers |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2018/06/11/julian-edelman-case-rife-with-questions-here-are-some-answers/crXuusn3bdYfPfKGiUHtLO/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190219131601/https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/patriots/2018/06/11/julian-edelman-case-rife-with-questions-here-are-some-answers/crXuusn3bdYfPfKGiUHtLO/story.html |archive-date=February 19, 2019 |access-date=February 19, 2019 |website=BostonGlobe.com}} In an interview after the Super Bowl, Edelman apologized.{{Cite web |last=King |first=Peter |date=February 11, 2019 |title=FMIA: From His Hollywood Haven, Julian Edelman Reflects on LIII MVP, His Path and Being a Perfect Patriot |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/02/10/julian-edelman-patriots-mvp-nfl-fmia-peter-king/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220002828/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/02/10/julian-edelman-patriots-mvp-nfl-fmia-peter-king/ |archive-date=February 20, 2019 |access-date=February 19, 2019 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en}}

His performance in the 2018 playoffs has also led to debate about inducting Edelman into the Hall of Fame despite a relative lack of regular season production.{{Cite news |last=Bieler |first=Des |date=February 4, 2019 |title=After another stellar postseason, is Julian Edelman a Hall of Famer? |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/02/04/julian-edelman-is-your-super-bowl-mvp-is-he-hall-famer/ |url-status=live |access-date=February 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190205090142/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2019/02/04/julian-edelman-is-your-super-bowl-mvp-is-he-hall-famer/ |archive-date=February 5, 2019}} He was ranked 90th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2019.{{Cite web |title=2019 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2019-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |archive-date=May 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511024217/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2019-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live }}

File:Julian Edelman In 2019.jpg ]]

On May 21, 2019, Edelman signed a two-year, $18 million contract extension with the Patriots with $12 million guaranteed, keeping him under contract through the 2021 season.{{Cite web |last=Teope |first=Herbie |date=May 21, 2019 |title=Patriots, Julian Edelman finalizing contract extension |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001031417/article/julian-edelman-patriots-closing-in-on-extension |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200322072944/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001031417/article/julian-edelman-patriots-closing-in-on-extension |archive-date=March 22, 2020 |access-date=September 19, 2019 |website=NFL.com}}

In Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Edelman caught six passes for 83 yards and threw one pass for 32 yards during the 33–3 victory.{{Cite web |date=September 8, 2019 |title=Brady starts his 20th season by beating Steelers 33–3 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127860 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190910085924/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127860 |archive-date=September 10, 2019 |access-date=September 8, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Two weeks later against the New York Jets, Edelman caught seven passes for 62 yards and his first receiving touchdown of the season in the 30–14 win.{{Cite web |date=September 22, 2019 |title=Brady, Patriots defense shine in 30–14 win over Jets |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127861 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424113744/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127861 |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=September 22, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} However, he suffered a rib injury in the second quarter that forced him out of the game.{{Cite web |last=London |first=Adam |date=September 22, 2019 |title=Julian Edelman Injury: Here's Latest Update On Patriots Wide Receiver |url=https://nesn.com/2019/09/julian-edelman-injury-heres-latest-update-on-patriots-wide-receiver/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190922232907/https://nesn.com/2019/09/julian-edelman-injury-heres-latest-update-on-patriots-wide-receiver/ |archive-date=September 22, 2019 |access-date=September 23, 2019 |website=NESN.com |publisher=NESN}} Edelman rebounded from his injury in Week 5 against the Washington Redskins; he had eight receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown; he became the first Patriot to record at least 100 yards all season.{{Cite news |last=Cotillo |first=Chris |date=October 6, 2019 |title=Julian Edelman becomes first New England Patriots receiver with 100-yard game this season |url=https://www.masslive.com/patriots/2019/10/julian-edelman-becomes-first-new-england-patriots-receiver-with-100-yard-game-this-season.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191006223718/https://www.masslive.com/patriots/2019/10/julian-edelman-becomes-first-new-england-patriots-receiver-with-100-yard-game-this-season.html |archive-date=October 6, 2019 |access-date=October 6, 2019 |newspaper=Masslive }} In Week 6 against the New York Giants, Edelman recorded nine catches for 113 yards in the 35–14 win. In the game, Edelman surpassed Stanley Morgan for the third most receptions in Patriots history.{{Cite web |date=October 10, 2019 |title=Patriots force 4 turnovers, beat Giants 35–14 to reach 6–0 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127917 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191014070750/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127917 |archive-date=October 14, 2019 |access-date=October 10, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} In Week 8 against the Cleveland Browns, Edelman caught eight passes for 78 yards and a season-high two touchdowns in the 27–13 win.{{Cite web |date=October 27, 2019 |title=Belichick wins 300th, perfect Patriots beat Browns 27–13 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127895 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191212145417/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127895 |archive-date=December 12, 2019 |access-date=October 27, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} In Week 11 against the Philadelphia Eagles, Edelman caught five passes for 53 yards and threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Phillip Dorsett II in the 17–10 win.{{Cite web |date=November 17, 2019 |title=Edelman's TD pass leads Patriots over Eagles 17–10 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127897 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191119060231/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127897 |archive-date=November 19, 2019 |access-date=November 17, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} In Week 13 against the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football, Edelman caught six passes for 106 yards and a touchdown during the 28–22 loss.{{Cite web |date=December 1, 2019 |title=Watson throws 3 TDs, catches another; Texans top Pats 28–22 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127967 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191203161827/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127967 |archive-date=December 3, 2019 |access-date=December 1, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} In Week 17 against the Miami Dolphins, Edelman caught three passes for 26 yards during the 27–24 loss. In the game, Edelman reached 100 catches on the season.{{Cite web |date=December 29, 2019 |title=Dolphins stun Patriots 27–24, denying NE first-round bye |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127909 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191230210449/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127909 |archive-date=December 30, 2019 |access-date=December 29, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} He finished the 2019 season with 100 receptions for 1,117 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman 2019 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2019/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217030346/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/E/EdelJu00/gamelog/2019/ |archive-date=February 17, 2020 |access-date=February 17, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the AFC Wild Card Round against the Tennessee Titans, Edelman caught three passes for 30 yards and rushed two times for 12 yards and a touchdown during the 20–13 loss.{{Cite web |date=January 4, 2020 |title=Derrick Henry, Titans stun Patriots 20–13 in wild-card upset |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401131036 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200108072623/https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401131036 |archive-date=January 8, 2020 |access-date=January 4, 2020 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}

During Week 2 against the Seattle Seahawks, Edelman finished with eight receptions for a career-high 179 receiving yards as the Patriots lost a close game 35–30 on NBC Sunday Night Football.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks – September 20th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202009200sea.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201008191212/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202009200sea.htm |archive-date=October 8, 2020 |access-date=September 23, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 6, against the Denver Broncos, he completed two passes in the game on trick plays in the 18–12 loss.{{Cite web |title=Denver Broncos at New England Patriots – October 18th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202010180nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201019130614/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202010180nwe.htm |archive-date=October 19, 2020 |access-date=October 19, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Edelman played his final game on October 25, 2020, which was a 33–6 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Edelman finished the game with one reception for 13 yards. On October 31, 2020, Edelman was placed on injured reserve after undergoing minor knee surgery.{{Cite web |date=October 31, 2020 |title=Patriots Make a Series of Roster Transactions |url=https://www.patriots.com/news/patriots-make-a-series-of-roster-transactions-x7038 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101003806/https://www.patriots.com/news/patriots-make-a-series-of-roster-transactions-x7038 |archive-date=November 1, 2020 |access-date=November 1, 2020 |website=Patriots.com}} He was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list by the team on November 30, 2020,{{Cite web |last=Reiss |first=Mike |date=November 30, 2020 |title=Patriots' Julian Edelman placed on reserve/COVID-19 list |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30423606/patriots-julian-edelman-placed-reserve-covid-19-list |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119073113/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30423606/patriots-julian-edelman-placed-reserve-covid-19-list |archive-date=January 19, 2021 |access-date=January 9, 2021 |website=ESPN.com}} and moved back to injured reserve on December 10.{{Cite news |date=December 10, 2020 |title=Patriots Activate Devin Asiasi, Place Ryan Izzo On IR, Take Julian Edelman Off COVID-19 List |work=CBSLocal.com |url=https://boston.cbslocal.com/2020/12/10/patriots-activate-devin-asiasi-place-ryan-izzo-on-ir-take-julian-edelman-off-covid-19-list/ |url-status=live |access-date=January 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210217153730/https://boston.cbslocal.com/2020/12/10/patriots-activate-devin-asiasi-place-ryan-izzo-on-ir-take-julian-edelman-off-covid-19-list/ |archive-date=February 17, 2021}} On December 16, 2020, Edelman was designated to return from injured reserve, opening a 21-day window for the Patriots to put him on the active roster,{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Charean |date=December 16, 2020 |title=Patriots designate Julian Edelman, Shilique Calhoun to return from IR |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/12/16/patriots-designate-julian-edelman-shilique-calhoun-to-return-from-ir/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201216200713/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/12/16/patriots-designate-julian-edelman-shilique-calhoun-to-return-from-ir/ |archive-date=December 16, 2020 |access-date=December 17, 2020 |website=NBC Sports}} but head coach Bill Belichick announced on January 1, 2021, that he would not be activated before the end of the season.{{Cite news |last=Daniels, Mark |date=January 1, 2021 |title=Patriots WR Julian Edelman won't return this season, but will he in 2021? |work=ProvidenceJournal.com |url=https://www.providencejournal.com/story/sports/nfl/patriots/2021/01/01/patriots-wr-julian-edelman-wont-return-season/4107156001/ |url-status=live |access-date=February 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121182906/https://www.providencejournal.com/story/sports/nfl/patriots/2021/01/01/patriots-wr-julian-edelman-wont-return-season/4107156001/ |archive-date=January 21, 2021}}

Edelman announced his retirement on April 12, 2021, after 12 seasons with the Patriots.{{Cite tweet |number=1381722282570170373 |user=Edelman11 |title=Foxboro Forever |author=Julian Edelman}} His retirement occurred after the Patriots ended his contract because he failed a physical.{{Cite web |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=April 12, 2021 |title=Three-time Super Bowl champion WR Julian Edelman retires after Patriots release |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/three-time-super-bowl-champion-wr-julian-edelman-released-by-patriots |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412202539/https://www.nfl.com/news/three-time-super-bowl-champion-wr-julian-edelman-released-by-patriots |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |access-date=April 12, 2021 |website=NFL.com}} After the announcement, Bill Belichick issued a statement that praised Edelman's competitiveness and mental and physical toughness, calling him the "quintessential throwback player" for his versatile skills, and said that it was a privilege to coach him. Robert Kraft, in his statement, called Edelman "one of the great success stories in our franchise’s history".{{Cite web |last=Mason |first=Chris |date=April 12, 2021 |title=Bill Belichick: Julian Edelman was the 'quintessential throwback player' |url=https://www.masslive.com/patriots/2021/04/julian-edelman-retires-bill-belichick-robert-kraft-release-glowing-statements-about-patriots-wr.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421180309/https://www.masslive.com/patriots/2021/04/julian-edelman-retires-bill-belichick-robert-kraft-release-glowing-statements-about-patriots-wr.html |archive-date=April 21, 2021 |access-date=April 21, 2021 |website=masslive |language=en}} On social media, Tom Brady wrote about his affection for Edelman as a player and friend,{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Brianna |date=April 12, 2020 |title=Tom Brady sends heartfelt message to New England Patriots WR Julian Edelman who announced his retirement from the NFL |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31245810/tom-brady-sends-heartfelt-message-new-england-patriots-wr-julian-edelman-announced-retirement-nfl |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416031219/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31245810/tom-brady-sends-heartfelt-message-new-england-patriots-wr-julian-edelman-announced-retirement-nfl |archive-date=April 16, 2021 |access-date=April 16, 2021 |website=ESPN}} and Cam Newton posted that Edelman would be missed.{{Cite web |last=Goss |first=Nick |date=April 13, 2021 |title=Newton posts Twitter message for Edelman after WR's retirement |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/patriots/cam-newton-posts-twitter-message-julian-edelman-after-wrs-retirement |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416031219/https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/patriots/cam-newton-posts-twitter-message-julian-edelman-after-wrs-retirement |archive-date=April 16, 2021 |access-date=April 16, 2021 |website=nbcsports.com}}

After his retirement, Edelman did a series of podcast interviews reviewing his career, including Pardon My Take{{Cite web |date=April 21, 2021 |title=Julian Edelman & A Lakers Catfish Scandal {{!}} PMT 4–21–21 – YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-BJj7gBD74|publisher=Pardon My Take |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607192032/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-BJj7gBD74 |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=YouTube}} and Green Light with Chris Long,{{Cite web |title=Green Light with Chris Long: Julian Edelman! Winning 3 Super Bowls, Earning Tom Brady's Trust, Getting Roasted in Film Room by Bill, Best DB's He's Gone Against and What's Next. On Apple Podcasts |url=https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/julian-edelman-winning-3-super-bowls-earning-tom-bradys/id1485277290?i=1000523770235 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607193536/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/julian-edelman-winning-3-super-bowls-earning-tom-bradys/id1485277290?i=1000523770235 |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=Apple}} a teammate of Edelman's during the 2016 season. Shortly after retiring from the NFL, he announced that he would start a media career, and would join the cast of Inside the NFL on Paramount+.{{Cite web |last=Fleming |first=Mike Jr. |date=April 21, 2021 |title=Julian Edelman Joins 'Inside the NFL' This Fall on Paramount+; Part of Overall ViacomCBS Deal for His Coast Productions |url=https://deadline.com/2021/04/julian-edelman-inside-the-nfl-joins-viacomcbs-overall-deal-coast-productions-1234740984/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421231316/https://deadline.com/2021/04/julian-edelman-inside-the-nfl-joins-viacomcbs-overall-deal-coast-productions-1234740984/ |archive-date=April 21, 2021 |access-date=April 21, 2021 |website=Deadline}} There was speculation that he would later return to the NFL to play with former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following their former teammate Rob Gronkowski coming out of retirement to play with Brady on the Buccaneers. This included a remark by Brady himself. Edelman denied the rumors, saying that he was "a one-team guy".{{Cite web |last=Dubin |first=Jared |date=May 20, 2021 |title=Julian Edelman says he won't join Tom Brady with the Buccaneers: 'I'm a one-team guy' |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/julian-edelman-says-he-wont-join-tom-brady-with-the-buccaneers-im-a-one-team-guy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607193311/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/julian-edelman-says-he-wont-join-tom-brady-with-the-buccaneers-im-a-one-team-guy/ |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=CBSSports.com}}

His retirement also revived the debate about inducting him into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which had begun after his MVP performance in Super Bowl LIII.{{Cite web |last=Goss |first=Nick |date=February 11, 2019 |title=Julian Edelman a Hall of Famer? Why Patriots WR belongs in the conversation |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/patriots/julian-edelman-hall-famer-why-patriots-wr-belongs-conversation |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607193316/https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/patriots/julian-edelman-hall-famer-why-patriots-wr-belongs-conversation |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=NBCSports.com}} Opponents cite his lack of Pro Bowl nominations and other usual metrics for evaluating NFL careers.{{Cite web |last=Judge |first=Clark |date=April 13, 2021 |title=Does Julian Edelman belong in the Pro Football Hall of Fame? The answer is easy |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/talkoffame/nfl/julian-edelman-hall-of-fame |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607193305/https://www.si.com/nfl/talkoffame/nfl/julian-edelman-hall-of-fame |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=SI.com}} Proponents cite his roles on three Super Bowl-winning Patriots teams{{Cite web |last=Leitner |first=Will |date=April 15, 2021 |title=Colin Cowherd: Julian Edelman Should Make the Hall of Fame |url=https://foxsportsradio.iheart.com/content/2021-04-15-colin-cowherd-julian-edelman-should-make-the-hall-of-fame/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607193307/https://foxsportsradio.iheart.com/content/2021-04-15-colin-cowherd-julian-edelman-should-make-the-hall-of-fame/ |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=FOX Sports Radio}} and his ranking second all-time in postseason receptions and receiving yards.{{Cite web |title=NFL Receiving Yards Career Playoffs Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_yds_career_playoffs.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607193307/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_yds_career_playoffs.htm |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |access-date=June 7, 2021 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com}}

In 2016, Edelman became one of three Patriots (along with Malcolm Mitchell and Martellus Bennett) to publish a children's book. Edelman's book, Flying High, is about a squirrel named Jules who learns to overcome his physical limitations through hard work and the assistance of a goat named Tom.{{Cite news |last=Jacobs |first=Melissa |date=February 5, 2017 |title=Patriot Way: New England's children's book triumvirate |work=SI.com |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/02/05/patriots-malcolm-mitchell-julian-edelman-martellus-bennett-childrens-books |url-status=live |access-date=February 23, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170207174308/http://www.si.com/nfl/2017/02/05/patriots-malcolm-mitchell-julian-edelman-martellus-bennett-childrens-books |archive-date=February 7, 2017}} A sequel, Flying High 2, loosely based on Edelman's "greatest Super Bowl catch" against the Atlanta Falcons, was released in December 2017.{{Cite news |last=Benjamin |first=Cody |date=February 5, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman is about to drop the sequel to his kids book about a super squirrel |language=en |work=CBSSports.com |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/julian-edelman-is-about-to-drop-the-sequel-to-his-kids-book-about-a-super-squirrel/ |url-status=live |access-date=January 24, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180124195602/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/julian-edelman-is-about-to-drop-the-sequel-to-his-kids-book-about-a-super-squirrel/ |archive-date=January 24, 2018}}

On October 24, 2017, Hachette Book Group published Edelman's memoir, Relentless, written with Tom E. Curran of NBC Sports Boston.{{Cite web |date=August 9, 2017 |title=Julian Edelman Wrote A Book, Will Reveal Story Behind 'The Catch' |url=http://boston.cbslocal.com/2017/08/09/julian-edelman-book-relentless-catch/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813165914/http://boston.cbslocal.com/2017/08/09/julian-edelman-book-relentless-catch/ |archive-date=August 13, 2017 |access-date=August 10, 2017 |website=CBS – Boston}}

Edelman has his own clothing brand, JE11. He has worked with Joe's Jeans on a line of shirts and jeans, and with Cutters Sports on a line of football gloves.{{Cite web |title=Julian Edelman x Joe's |url=https://julianedelman.com/pages/joes |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424113748/https://julianedelman.com/pages/joes |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=JE11}}

He has made cameo appearances on television, including episodes of the HBO sports dramedy Ballers{{Cite web |last=Lawrence |first=Derek |date=August 29, 2022 |title=The 12 Biggest Real-Life Ballers to Appear on 'Ballers' |url=https://ew.com/tv/athletes-on-ballers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212131215/https://ew.com/tv/athletes-on-ballers/ |archive-date=February 12, 2019 |access-date=February 12, 2019 |website=EW.com |language=en}} and the reality competition America's Next Top Model.{{Cite web |last1=Shanahan |first1=Mark |last2=Goldstein |first2=Meredith |date=October 21, 2011 |title=Edelman parties for Ellie Fund |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/2011/10/20/edelman-parties-for-ellie-fund/Laps8DFl6EQiYjNUXuZDOI/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212131233/https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/2011/10/20/edelman-parties-for-ellie-fund/Laps8DFl6EQiYjNUXuZDOI/story.html |archive-date=February 12, 2019 |access-date=February 12, 2019 |website=BostonGlobe.com}} He has also presented twice at the Grammy Awards, in 2015 with teammate Malcolm Butler{{Cite news |last=Bieler |first=Des |date=February 9, 2015 |title=Julian Edelman and Malcolm Butler presented an award at the 2015 Grammys |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2015/02/09/julian-edelman-and-malcolm-butler-presented-an-award-at-the-2015-grammys/ |url-status=live |access-date=February 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428120639/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2015/02/09/julian-edelman-and-malcolm-butler-presented-an-award-at-the-2015-grammys/ |archive-date=April 28, 2019}} and in 2019 with teammate Devin McCourty.{{Cite news |last=Yang |first=Nicole |date=February 10, 2019 |title=A clean-shaven Julian Edelman and Devin McCourty present at the 61st Grammy Awards |language=en-US |work=Boston.com |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2019/02/10/julian-edelman-devin-mccourty-grammy-awards |url-status=live |access-date=February 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212151612/https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2019/02/10/julian-edelman-devin-mccourty-grammy-awards |archive-date=February 12, 2019}} He appeared in a Puma advertisement campaign in 2015.{{Cite web |title=PUMA TV Commercial |url=https://www.ispot.tv/ad/7Ub6/puma-faster-stronger-fiercer-featuring-julian-edelman |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730202651/https://www.ispot.tv/ad/7Ub6/puma-faster-stronger-fiercer-featuring-julian-edelman |archive-date=July 30, 2019 |access-date=July 30, 2019 |website=ispot.tv}}

With Danny Amendola, he was featured in a 30-minute NFL Network special, NFL Going Global: Edelman & Amendola, chronicling their promotional trip to Mexico City before the Patriots' 2017 game there.{{Cite news |last=Yang |first=Nicole |date=November 12, 2017 |title=New NFL documentary spotlights Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola's trip to Mexico |language=en-US |work=Boston.com |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2017/11/12/new-nfl-film-documentary-julian-edelman-danny-amendola-mexico-city |url-status=live |access-date=February 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212131621/https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2017/11/12/new-nfl-film-documentary-julian-edelman-danny-amendola-mexico-city |archive-date=February 12, 2019}}

The NFL Network documentary series A Football Life aired an episode about Edelman on November 25, 2022.{{Cite web |date=September 6, 2022 |title=Julian Edelman getting his own episode of "A Football Life" |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/julian-edelman-episode-a-football-life/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220906182344/https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/julian-edelman-episode-a-football-life/ |archive-date=September 6, 2022 |access-date=September 6, 2022 |website=CBS – Boston |language=en-US}}

In 2019, Edelman co-founded a production company, Nuthouse Sports (formerly Coast Productions), with the founder of creative agency Superdigital, Assaf Swissa.{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Sportico |date=2024-10-18 |title=Sportico Transactions: Moves and Mergers Roundup for Oct. 18 |url=https://www.sportico.com/personalities/people/2024/sportico-transactions-moves-mergers-roundup-oct-18-2024-1234801685/ |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=Sportico.com |language=en-US}} Their first venture was the 2019 Showtime documentary 100%, about Edelman's recovery from a 2017 ACL tear and the 2018 NFL season.{{Cite web |last=Siegal |first=Tatiana |date=August 15, 2019 |title=NFL Star Julian Edelman and Business Partner Reveal Hollywood Ambitions and Advice From Mark Wahlberg |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/julian-edelman-assaf-swissa-film-tv-ambitions-1230915 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421181914/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/julian-edelman-assaf-swissa-film-tv-ambitions-1230915 |archive-date=April 21, 2021 |access-date=April 21, 2021 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en}} In April 2021, after Edelman's retirement, ViacomCBS signed a multi-year development deal with Coast Productions; in the deal, Edelman joined Inside the NFL as an analyst as it moved to Paramount+. Edelman was nominated for a Sports Emmy in 2022 for his first season on Inside the NFL.{{Cite web |last=Leger |first=Justin |date=April 6, 2022 |title=Julian Edelman nominated for 2022 Sports Emmy Award |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/patriots/julian-edelman-nominated-2022-sports-emmy-award |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221126030325/https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/patriots/julian-edelman-nominated-2022-sports-emmy-award |archive-date=November 26, 2022 |access-date=November 26, 2022 |website=NBC Sports - Boston |language=en}}

In October 2024, Edelman and Swissa partnered with Rob Gronkowski on the entertainment studio, Nuthouse Sports. Their first production together was the “Dudes on Dudes with Gronk and Jules” podcast which debuted on October 15, 2024.

In August 2022, Edelman along comedian Sam Morril began co-hosting a iHeartMedia podcast, Games with Names.{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2022/08/julian-edelman-podcasting-sam-morril-1235092847/|work=Deadline.com|title=Former New England Patriots Star Julian Edelman Moves Into Podcasting With Comedian Sam Morril|first=Peter|last=White|date=August 16, 2022|accessdate=November 20, 2024}}{{Cite web |date=August 16, 2022 |title=Julian Edelman co-hosting new podcast, "Games With Names" – CBS Boston |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/julian-edelman-co-hosting-new-podcast-games-with-names/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=CBS – Boston |language=en-US}} The podcast revisited some of the most iconic and memorable games in sports history with guests on the show typically include players, coaches, and celebrity fans.{{cite web|url=https://gameswithnames.com/about/|work=GamesWithNames.com|title=About the pod|accessdate=November 20, 2024}} In 2023, Edelman continued to host the show by himself after Morril left the podcast.

In October 2024, Edelman along with his friend and former teammate, Rob Gronkowski, launched another iHeartMedia podcast, Dudes on Dudes.{{cite web|url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2024/10/15/rob-gronkowski-julian-edelman-new-podcast-patriots-nfl/|title=Former Patriots Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman announce new podcast|first=Andrew|last=Mahoney|work=The Boston Globe|date=October 15, 2024|accessdate=November 20, 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-10-14-rob-gronkowski-julian-edelman-launch-new-dudes-iheartmedia-podcast/|work=iHeart.com|title=Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman Launch New 'Dudes' iHeartMedia Podcast|first=Jason|last=Hall|date=October 14, 2024|accessdate=November 20, 2024}}

Along with hosting, Edelman has made numerous appearances on other podcasts and sports shows. These include New Heights hosted by Travis and Jason Kelce, Cold as Balls by Kevin Hart, and The Von Cast hosted by Von Miller amongst many others. Edelman's appearance on the New Heights podcast showed him doing an impersonation of his former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.{{Cite web |date=September 15, 2021 |title=Julian Edelman Impersonates Bill Belichick, Explains How Coach Likely Addressed Patriots After Week 1 Loss – CBS Boston |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/julian-edelman-impersonates-bill-belichick-coach-addressed-patriots-after-loss/ |access-date=October 26, 2023 |website=CBS – Boston |language=en-US}} His impersonation of Belichick went on to become an internet meme and sensation, garnering millions of views after being posted by almost every major sports network in America.{{Cite web |date=2021-09-30 |title=Patriots: Julian Edelman tweets perfect ‘Office’ video about Brady’s return |url=https://musketfire.com/2021/09/30/patriots-julian-edelman-office-video-meme-tom-brady-return/ |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=Musket Fire |language=en-US}}

Edelman dated Brazilian model Adriana Lima on and off in 2016 and 2017.{{Cite web |last=Seemayer |first=Zach |date=March 8, 2017 |title=Model Adriana Lima and New England Patriots' Julian Edelman Split |url=https://www.etonline.com/news/212474_model_adriana_lima_and_new_england_patriots_julian_edelman_split |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190505000941/https://www.etonline.com/news/212474_model_adriana_lima_and_new_england_patriots_julian_edelman_split |archive-date=May 5, 2019 |access-date=May 31, 2019 |website=Entertainment Tonight}}{{Cite web |last=Dowd |first=Kathy Ehrich |date=May 12, 2017 |title='It's a Stretch' to Blame Adriana Lima for Matt Harvey's Suspension After She Was Spotted with Ex Julian Edelman |url=https://people.com/celebrity/adriana-lima-matt-harvey-julian-edelman-love-triangle/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531151905/https://people.com/celebrity/adriana-lima-matt-harvey-julian-edelman-love-triangle/ |archive-date=May 31, 2019 |access-date=May 31, 2019 |website=People}} He has a daughter Lily, born with Swedish model Ella Rose. In an interview with the magazine Haute Living in 2019, Edelman detailed how challenging and rewarding he found being a father. He explained that fatherhood had changed his view of life.{{Cite web |last=Schreffler |first=Laura |date=July 16, 2019 |title=Super Bowl LIII MVP Julian Edelman Is Red (+ White + Blue) Hot And Hungrier Than Ever |url=https://hauteliving.com/2019/07/julian-edelman-is-prepared-to-dominate-on-the-gridiron-once-again/672137/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919062341/https://hauteliving.com/2019/07/julian-edelman-is-prepared-to-dominate-on-the-gridiron-once-again/672137/ |archive-date=September 19, 2020 |access-date=May 25, 2020 |website=hauteliving.com}}

Edelman's paternal great-grandfather, Harry Edelman, was Jewish; after emigrating from Poland to England, he married Mabel Hennessey, a woman of Irish Catholic background, Julian's great-grandmother.{{Cite web |last=Bloom |first=Nate |date=March 21, 2019 |title=Julian Edelman – The Jewish Standard |url=https://jewishstandard.timesofisrael.com/julian-edelman/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330184321/https://jewishstandard.timesofisrael.com/julian-edelman/ |archive-date=March 30, 2019 |access-date=September 29, 2022 |website=The Jewish Standard}}{{Cite news |last=Simmons |first=Steve |date=February 4, 2012 |title=Steve Simmons' Super Bowl diary |newspaper=Toronto Sun |url=http://www.torontosun.com/2012/02/03/steve-simmons-super-bowl-diary |url-status=live |access-date=September 8, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150921234904/http://www.torontosun.com/2012/02/03/steve-simmons-super-bowl-diary |archive-date=September 21, 2015}}{{Cite web |title=Edelman Jewish |url=https://forward.com/schmooze/213968/is-patriots-wide-receiver-julian-edelman-jewish/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919050634/https://forward.com/schmooze/213968/is-patriots-wide-receiver-julian-edelman-jewish/ |archive-date=September 19, 2018 |access-date=September 18, 2018 |website=The Forward|date=February 2, 2015 }} As an adult, Edelman has experienced what he described as a "Jewish awakening."{{Cite book |last1=Edelman |first1=Julian |title=Relentless: A Memoir |last2=Curran |first2=Tom E. |publisher=Hachette |year=2017 |page=257|isbn=978-0316479851 }} During an NFL Network interview in December 2013, Edelman stated that he identifies as Jewish and celebrates Hanukkah; he has become "more attuned to the religion and history." In 2014 he wore an Israeli-American flag pin on his hat during a game against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium.{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman explains nicknames 'Minitron' and 'The Squirrel' |url=http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-total-access/0ap2000000301400/Edelman-explains-nicknames-Minitron-and-The-Squirrel |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131223094403/http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-total-access/0ap2000000301400/Edelman-explains-nicknames-Minitron-and-The-Squirrel |archive-date=December 23, 2013 |access-date=December 21, 2013 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |last=Berman |first=Lazar |date=February 1, 2015 |title=In Super Bowl matchup, Pats have Israel connections covered |url=http://www.timesofisrael.com/in-super-bowl-matchup-pats-have-israel-connections-cornered |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150429072607/http://www.timesofisrael.com/in-super-bowl-matchup-pats-have-israel-connections-cornered/ |archive-date=April 29, 2015 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |website=The Times of Israel}} He also voiced support for the victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting: he wore an Israeli flag hat following the Patriots' win against the Green Bay Packers on November 4, 2018,{{Cite web |date=November 5, 2018 |title=Patriots' Edelman Voices Support For Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting Victims |url=https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2018/11/05/patriots-julian-edelman-support-pittsburgh-synagogue-shooting-victims/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424201424/https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2018/11/05/patriots-julian-edelman-support-pittsburgh-synagogue-shooting-victims/ |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=September 23, 2020 |website=CBS – Pittsburgh}} and wore a pair of customized cleats bearing the hashtag #strongerthanhate in a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 16, 2018.{{Cite web |date=December 16, 2018 |title=Patriots WR To Wear Cleats Honoring Tree Of Life Shooting Victims |url=https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2018/12/16/julian-edelman-patriots-stronger-than-hate-cleats/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306235431/https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2018/12/16/julian-edelman-patriots-stronger-than-hate-cleats/ |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 6, 2019 |website=CBS – Pittsburgh |language=en}} Edelman shared a photo of the cleats on Instagram and listed the names of all the victims in the photo's caption.{{Cite news |last=Yang |first=Nicole |date=December 16, 2018 |title=Julian Edelman, Robert Kraft show support for Jewish community in Pittsburgh |language=en-US |work=Boston.com |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2018/12/16/julian-edelman-robert-kraft-pittsburgh |url-status=live |access-date=February 10, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190210100310/https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2018/12/16/julian-edelman-robert-kraft-pittsburgh |archive-date=February 10, 2019}}

In response to Meyers Leonard's use of an antisemitic slur during a Twitch stream,{{Cite web |last=Fernandez |first=Gabriel |date=March 9, 2021 |title=Heat's Meyers Leonard to be away from team indefinitely after using anti-Semitic slur during live stream |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/heats-meyers-leonard-to-be-away-from-team-indefinitely-after-using-anti-semitic-slur-during-live-stream/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310144617/https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/heats-meyers-leonard-to-be-away-from-team-indefinitely-after-using-anti-semitic-slur-during-live-stream/ |archive-date=March 10, 2021 |access-date=March 10, 2021 |website=CBS Sports |publisher=CBS}} Edelman posted an open letter inviting Leonard to a Shabbat dinner with him in Miami.{{Cite web |last=Machlin |first=Tzvi |date=March 10, 2021 |title=Patriots WR Julian Edelman Has Powerful Message For Meyers Leonard |url=https://thespun.com/nfl/afc-east/new-england-patriots/patriots-wr-julian-edelman-has-powerful-message-for-meyers-leonard |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310171520/https://thespun.com/nfl/afc-east/new-england-patriots/patriots-wr-julian-edelman-has-powerful-message-for-meyers-leonard |archive-date=March 10, 2021 |access-date=March 10, 2021 |website=The Spun}}

Edelman was arrested at a Halloween party in 2011 and charged with indecent assault and battery for allegedly groping a woman.{{cite news |title=Julian Edelman Arrested For Allegedly Groping Woman At Boston Bar |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/julian-edelman-arrested-for-allegedly-groping-woman-at-boston-bar/ |access-date=October 31, 2023 |work=CBS News Boston |date=November 1, 2011}} On December 15, 2011, prosecutors dropped all charges against Edelman. According to a statement by the Suffolk County district attorney's office, "The evidence suggests that he approached a woman on the dance floor and took her hand briefly. Review of the videotape indicates that the physical contact between the two was fleeting, prosecutors say, and did not meet the elements of any crime."{{cite news |title=Sex Assault Charges Against Julian Edelman Dropped |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/sex-assault-charges-against-julian-edelman-dropped/ |access-date=31 October 2023 |work=CBS News Boston |date=December 15, 2011}}

In July 2016, Edelman was named in a paternity suit filed by Swedish model Ella Rose, with whom he had a casual relationship, naming him as the father of her unborn daughter.{{Cite web |last=Shanahan |first=Mark |date=July 27, 2016 |title=Julian Edelman facing paternity suit |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2016/07/27/julian-edelman-facing-paternity-suit/tKknRFoVkuRkVyRdmJm2tK/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308080742/https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2016/07/27/julian-edelman-facing-paternity-suit/tKknRFoVkuRkVyRdmJm2tK/story.html |archive-date=March 8, 2019 |access-date=March 7, 2019 |website=Boston Globe}} After first contesting paternity, Edelman acknowledged it; his daughter was born in November,{{Cite web |last=Shanahan |first=Mark |date=December 1, 2016 |title=Model who filed paternity suit against Julian Edelman has the baby |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2016/12/01/model-who-filed-paternity-suit-against-julian-edelman-has-baby/xWuFw2oFwgUiczrCdy7dsK/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022152430/https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2016/12/01/model-who-filed-paternity-suit-against-julian-edelman-has-baby/xWuFw2oFwgUiczrCdy7dsK/story.html |archive-date=October 22, 2021 |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=Boston Globe}} and he was not named on her birth certificate.{{Cite web |last=Shanahan |first=Mark |date=December 12, 2016 |title=TMZ found the birth certificate for Edelman's new baby |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2016/12/12/julian-edelman-name-not-listed-new-baby-birth-certificate/lIvHzG92nkH92sxyVEzdSL/story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308080802/https://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2016/12/12/julian-edelman-name-not-listed-new-baby-birth-certificate/lIvHzG92nkH92sxyVEzdSL/story.html |archive-date=March 8, 2019 |access-date=March 7, 2019 |website=Boston Globe}}

About 9:00 p.m on January 11, 2020, Edelman was cited for misdemeanor vandalism by the Beverly Hills Police Department after he allegedly jumped on the hood of a car in Beverly Hills, California, causing damage. In April 2020, the charge was dropped by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office because Edelman had paid the car owner for the repair and had no criminal record.{{Cite web |last=Reiss |first=Mike |date=April 9, 2020 |title=Julian Edelman won't be prosecuted in vandalism case |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29017604/julian-edelman-prosecuted-vandalism-case |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411094501/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29017604/julian-edelman-prosecuted-vandalism-case |archive-date=April 11, 2020 |access-date=April 11, 2020 |website=ESPN}}

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• [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aw6LGABJySE "Julian Edelman on His Brady Relationship, Being Scared of Belichick and Randy Moss' Hot Tub,"] New Heights Podcast, Episode 49, YouTube.com, July 19, 2023. (Video)

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