New England Patriots’ Julian Edelman is Minitron

Sep 14, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) returns a punt by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Patriots win 30-7. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

New England Patriots wideout Julian Edelman could be described as many things. All-around jokester, impressive athlete, stunningly versatile. But one thing is for certain, don’t call him Minitron. Which makes perfect sense. No grown man would like to be thought of as something that registersmental images of all things small or cutesy. That’s just not macho. I’m sure that Pats QB Tom Brady didn’t think much of that when giving Edelman the moniker late last year, but it certainly rings true to Edelman’s superstar capabilities.

Think of the stats. Julian Edelman has had eight straight games with six+ catches. That’s the longest active streak in the NFL. Last year, in arguably his best season to date, Edelman came in fourth in the league for wideouts with 1,056 receiving yards. It’s easy to say that he’s earned Brady’s trust, and undoubtedly the top wideout position, with more looks per game than any other teammate. Although when asked, Edelman denies what is obvious to countless others: “I’m going to do my job and that’s to get open and catch the ball.”In the first two games of the 2014 season, Edelman has accounted for 44% of all of Brady’s passing yards. Clearly, Brady has his eyes fixated on his “squirrely” teammate.

“I’m going to do my job and that’s to get open and catch the ball” – Julian Edelman

But none of this came easy for No. 11. At his time at Kent State, Edelman was on the other side of the ball playing quarterback. Perhaps this is what has given him an edge on the competition. His inside perspective and understanding on how to get open, and a keen intellect to know where and when he’s needed has excelled him. Transitioning from life as a college player to the pros is a difficult shift for most players entering the league. But it’s almost impossible with critics beating you down, only hoping to prove themselves right. Edelman’s position in the NFL upon entering was undetermined at best, if anything.

After not being invited to the 2009 NFL Combine, Edelman showed up at his pro day on March 12, and beat the best short shuttle time recorded at the Combine. The Patriots were smart to pick him up in the seventh round of the draft that year, and immediately put his speed to the test as their primary returner. In 2011, he was even used as a defensive back at times, filling in when duty came calling in between his time as slot receiver/returner. The 2012 NFL season was dull statistically speaking for Edelman, missing several games to do injuries. After resting up, Edelman came back stronger than ever. He dominated the Patriots offensively in the 2013 season, who were once known for a group of powerhouse offensive players. Edelman saw more targets than anyone other wideout on the team, including the well-paid new addition that of Danny Amendola,and instilled trust with Brady in the absence of once favorite, Wes Welker.

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Fans and critics alike went into a tizzy when Wes Welker made the move to the Denver Broncos. People, including Tom Brady, were a more than slightly “bummed out” by the exit of Welker. The trade ignited controversy around the league and especially in the hearts of Bostonians.What was going to be the answer for the Patriots’ offensive struggles? Well, it looks like Julian Edelman was that answer. Last year, he filled the void in the absence of now rival Broncos’ Wes Welker, and the unsavory character that is Aaron Hernandez who faces life in prison. Best of all, Edelman was there to fill in when Rob Gronkowski missed nine games last season sidelined by injury. If you’re one of the naysayers that still thinks the Patriots made the wrong move with letting Welker go, take a close look at the facts:

Since the start of the 2013 season (including playoffs):

Julian Edelman: 20 games, 133 catches, 1,405 yards, 8 touchdowns

Wes Welker: 16 games, 91 catches, 938 yards, 11 touchdowns

Edelman, the prospect who was “too small” and “unconventional” has risen to the occasion and left critics eating their harsh words. The Patriots knew better than to let Julian Edelman go, after visits in the offseason with several teams (including his hometown team San Francisco 49ers), signing him to a deal for 4yrs/17 million. The man can do anything, which he manifests daily. Work his butt off to prove people wrong, fill in on whatever side of the ball he’s needed, and be the reliable to answer to the Patriots offensive struggles. He’s able to move and shift, transforming himself when needed in ways unexpected. He’s durable, plays with passion, and dominates in a way that looks effortless. As a woman, I will agree with Brady. Edelman is in fact, Minitron. And there is nothing cutesy about that. It’s downright awesome.