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Angel Todorov
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Patriots’ Slater retires from NFL after 16 campaigns
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Matthew, a 10-time Pro Bowler, retires from the league.

Matthew Slater, who holds the National Football League record for most special teams Pro Bowl features with 10, shared today that he will retire after 16 years in the NFL.

“I have given all that I possibly can to the football,” Slater shared on a social media post shared by the NE Patriots. “Though it is time for me to end my career, my love for football will last until my final breath.”

Matthew, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jackie Slater, was picked by New England in the 5th round at the 2008 NFL Draft and played only for the Patriots. Slater wondered if he would even make the roster after his 1st training camp, reflecting his unique role as a core special teams player.

In the past seasons, ex-Pats manager Bill Belichick had referred to Matthew as the greatest to play football in his role, sharing that he felt honored to have in his team during his time in New England the greatest offensive (Tom Brady), defensive (Lawrence Taylor), and special teams players (Slater) in the NFL history.