As changes unfold in Foxborough, the New England Patriots are gearing up to say goodbye to Matthew Slater, one of their cherished captains, who announced his retirement via the team’s social media channels on Tuesday morning. Slater’s distinguished career, filled with multiple awards and championship triumphs, comes to a close after serving as a Patriots captain for an impressive 13 consecutive seasons.
A fixture in Foxborough, Slater concludes his career as a three-time Super Bowl victor. His exceptional reliability and leadership garnered him recognition with five first-team All-Pro selections, three second-team All-Pro nods, and an impressive 10 Pro Bowl appearances. Noteworthy accolades include the Bart Starr Award in 2017 and the Art Rooney Award in 2021, highlighting his outstanding character and sportsmanship both on and off the gridiron.
Matthew Slater’s father, Hall of Fame offensive tackle Jackie Slater, also enjoyed a lengthy tenure with a single franchise, spending 19 seasons with the Rams franchise, spanning from Los Angeles to the organization’s relocation to St. Louis. In his retirement statement, Slater paid tribute to his father, expressing gratitude for his influence and guidance.
“Dad, you paved the way. You set the bar. I hope I upheld it. I hope I followed in your footsteps admirably. It was never a burden. Only a privilege. A gift from above.”
Matthew Slater’s Football Journey
Originally drafted by the Patriots as a wide receiver from UCLA in 2008, Slater’s NFL trajectory underwent an unexpected shift when he transitioned his focus to special teams. This strategic move proved pivotal in shaping his career, as he emerged as one of the league’s foremost players in this phase of the game. Despite initial uncertainties surrounding his place on the roster, Slater’s unwavering dedication and resolve propelled him to success, culminating in an impressive 16-season stint with the Patriots.
In a 2022 statement to ESPN, former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick hailed Slater as one of the greatest special teams players in NFL history, drawing comparisons to Tom Brady’s impact on offense and Lawrence Taylor’s dominance on defense.
“Matt Slater will undoubtedly be regarded among the elite in the kicking game, alongside Brady on offense and Taylor on defense,” Belichick remarked to ESPN. “So, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to coach all these players, but those three, in particular.”
Matthew Slater: An Iconic Patriot
With 239 games to his name, Slater stands as the franchise’s second-most prolific player in terms of appearances, trailing only the legendary Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady.
Although Slater did not formally declare his retirement during the 2023 season, speculation abounded among teammates, fans, and the media regarding the likelihood of his final season. The inquiries leading up to his last game in a Patriots uniform reflected this sentiment, as did Slater’s responses.
“I genuinely feel appreciated by everyone within the organization. I’m grateful for the reception and the expressions of gratitude I’ve received this week,” Slater conveyed during a January 6th press briefing at Foxborough Stadium. “Undoubtedly, Sunday will be emotional for obvious reasons, but my focus remains on playing football, as it always has. That won’t change come Sunday.”
Ahead of his farewell game on January 7th, Slater’s Patriot comrades paid homage to the esteemed team captain by sporting shirts in his honor during pre-game warmups.
The retirement of Slater symbolizes the conclusion of an era for the Patriots, given his integral role during the Belichick/Brady era in Foxborough. Following numerous victories, fans eagerly watched as Slater led the team huddle’s breakdown after post-game speeches, punctuating the moment with his distinctive call, “Awww yeah!”
As Slater retires from the game, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by integrity, leadership, and excellence. His pivotal role in the Patriots’ success, coupled with his unwavering dedication to the sport, will be warmly cherished by both fans and teammates alike. While his absence on the field will be keenly felt, Slater’s impact and lasting legacy will remain etched in the hearts of Patriots supporters.
Slater’s eventual enshrinement in the Patriot Hall of Fame seems inevitable, and there’s speculation about his potential induction into the NFL Hall of Fame as well. Bill Belichick even made a compelling case for Slater during a press conference on Friday, December 29th, at Foxborough Stadium.
“I believe Slater will eventually be considered for the Hall of Fame,” Belichick asserted. “He’s not a returner or a specialist but rather a coverage player, a role that’s not adequately represented in the Hall of Fame.
Yet, considering his career achievements, the duration of his service, and the consistently high level of his performance… I’d argue that he’s been the most productive player in his position throughout his extensive career. He’s arguably the greatest to have ever played his role.”
