When football fans think of Julian Edelman, they picture one of the most clutch wide receivers in NFL history—a Super Bowl MVP, a playoff legend, and Tom Brady’s ultimate safety valve. But Edelman’s story has a fascinating twist that many overlook: his surprising success as a quarterback in the NFL.
Though Edelman made his name catching passes, he was once the one throwing them. A college quarterback at Kent State, Edelman’s transition to wide receiver in the pros became a masterstroke for the Patriots. Yet, when New England called on him to line up under center, he delivered with precision that rivaled the league’s best.
The Stats: Near-Perfection
In his career as a passer, Edelman attempted eight throws. Seven of them were completions. Those completions amassed 179 yards and included two touchdown passes, resulting in a passer rating of 158.3—essentially perfect. It’s a stat line any quarterback would envy and a testament to Edelman’s versatility.
The Iconic Moment
Of Edelman’s two touchdown passes, one stands out as an unforgettable playoff highlight: his 2014 postseason strike against the Baltimore Ravens. Facing a 14-point deficit in the Divisional Round, the Patriots dug into their bag of tricks. Edelman took a backward pass from Tom Brady and unleashed a 51-yard touchdown bomb to Danny Amendola.
The play was a game-changer, sparking a Patriots comeback in a game they would ultimately win 35-31. The throw was as accurate as it was timely, reminding everyone that Edelman’s quarterback skills had never truly left him.
More Than a Trick Play
While Edelman’s quarterback moments are often viewed as novelties, they underscore his adaptability and football IQ. His ability to read defenses, anticipate movements, and deliver under pressure made him an invaluable asset—not just as a receiver, but as a secret weapon who could keep defenses guessing.
A Career Defined by Clutch
Whether catching passes, throwing them, or grinding out tough yards after the catch, Edelman built a career on delivering in the biggest moments. His postseason numbers rival those of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, and his 2014 playoff pass to Amendola is a perfect example of his knack for rising to the occasion.
The Legacy
Julian Edelman will always be remembered for his grit, his tenacity, and his penchant for showing up when it mattered most. But for those who look deeper into his remarkable career, his near-perfect stint as a quarterback adds another layer to the legend.
After all, how many players can say they’re one of the best receivers in NFL history and boast a perfect passer rating? Julian Edelman isn’t just unique—he’s one of a kind.
