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New England Patriots: 16 most important Patriots during their dynasty

By Brian Hines

FOXBORO, MA - OCTOBER 29: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks with Tom Brady #12 during the fourth quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on October 29, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
FOXBORO, MA - OCTOBER 29: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks with Tom Brady #12 during the fourth quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Gillette Stadium on October 29, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots
HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: Julian Edelman #11 of the New England Patriots stands on the field prior to Super Bowl 51 against the Atlanta Falcons at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

11. Julian Edelman

The Ringers Rank: 9

Wes Welker was the first Patriot receiver to be featured in the slot. But as he moved on to Denver, Edelman has filled his role and has arguably played it even better than Welker.

Edelman’s quickness, toughness and competitiveness have made him the perfect fit for Brady and the offense. His 356 receptions since 2013 are fifth-most in the NFL.

One area where Edelman is undoubtedly better than Welker is in playoff production. In fact, Edelman is the greatest playoff receiver in Patriots history. Edelman currently ranks third all-time in playoff receptions (89) and should easily move pass Reggie Wayne (93) for second on the list.

Edelman has been the most consistent player on two USper Bowl championship teams. In Super Bowl XLIX, he caught nine balls for 109 yards and the eventual game-winning touchdown. This February in Super Bowl LI, he made one of the greatest coaches in NFL history to contribute to the epic comeback victory.

"“Julian’s a tough player,” Belichick said. “He competes well.”"

His contributions on special teams cannot go unnoticed. Before he took over for Welker in the slot, Edelman was one of the most feared returns in the game. His career 11.67 yards per punt return trails only the great Devin Hester (11.73) since 2000.

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