This season hasn’t gone anything like the Patriots had hoped through the first six weeks of the season, but veteran Matthew Slater has no regrets about coming back for a 16th year.
Appearing on WEEI Radio, the 38-year-old special teams ace was asked if he’s still happy with his decision to return to the team despite the 1-5 start. To which Slater replied:
Absolutely. Look, you never take for granted an opportunity to play the game you love, especially when you’re my age. Obviously, not what I envisioned when I came back — for us to be in this position. But I have no regrets at all and I’m still thankful to be a part of this group, thankful to be working with these guys and hoping we can turn this thing around and finish on a high note.
Does Matthew Slater regret not retiring over the offseason?
The Patriots legend opened up:https://t.co/QOHPEUtKgj
— NESN (@NESN) October 17, 2023
Slater has enjoyed a tremendous amount of success since coming to New England as a fifth-round pick out of UCLA back in 2008. In that time he’s been a part of three Super Bowl winners, made 10 Pro Bowls and been selected as a first-team All-Pro twice.
Perhaps this will end up being his last year. But he’ll certainly have a spot in the Patriots Ring of Honor (and possibly Canton) once that time comes.