Even though he has ended his playing career, former Patriots special teams star Matthew Slater’s tenure in New England is far from over.

Following the 2023 season, Slater, 38, announced the end of his incredible 16-year career, all of which he had with the Patriots. Nevertheless, as ESPN’s Mike Reiss noted, the ten-time Pro Bowler attended Monday’s inaugural day of New England’s optional offseason training program.
Despite being a voluntary program, Christian Gonzalez, Rhamondre Stevenson, and Kendrick Bourne—three of the most significant experienced players for the Patriots—were there.


Given that this is another “first” in Jerod Mayo’s short term as head coach, the day is historic in and of itself. Since Mayo and Slater were teammates and taken in the same 2008 draft class, it goes without saying that they are quite acquainted.


About Slater’s possible coaching career, it’s uncertain if he will accept a more formal role. After Slater announced his retirement, Mayo said in a statement that the former captain of the special teams “will be great at whatever he chooses to do next.”