Season-long team captain Matthew Slater took some extra time to enjoy the moment as the New England Patriots left the snow-covered field at Gillette Stadium after losing 17-3 to the New York Jets in their season-ending game.
Even if it does not seem like the right moment to get sentimental at the end of a 4-13 season, Slater knew that this would be the last time he would wear his No. 18 jersey in the stadium where he spent 16 NFL seasons.
For Patriots supporters, Slater’s retirement announcement last month was a bittersweet occasion, even if it was widely anticipated for the majority of the season. The realization of never longer witnessing the prolific special team player make a crucial tackle or lead his well-known “Awww Yeah” postgame locker room cheer set in for the nearly universally adored New England fans. Slater is content with his choice, despite missing his teammates and the action on the field. He talked about this on Friday when he joined Chris Long, a fellow Super Bowl LI winner and former colleague, on the “Green Light” Podcast.
Slater stated, “My wife and I kind of determined this would be it based on where I was physically and where we are as a family, as we were thinking about this season last summer.” She simply needed me home more because we have four children. I missed being at home more. We kind of decided last year that this would be my final attempt at it.
Slater was recognized by his teammates during his last game. On the front of their blue sweater read “The Patriot,” while on the back it said “Captain” along with his number, 18. Among the most respected Patriots players in franchise history is Slater.
It was really moving. Like Slater said, it was not easy. “I was just really appreciative.” I just assumed the NFL would be through with me before I was through with it, and I never thought I would get to retire from the league. I love this game, therefore it was nostalgic for me.
