Matthew Slater, a 13-time team captain and beloved figure in the ‘Patriots’ franchise, has chosen his first post-retirement role, not far from the gridiron. Slater is reported to work with the team as an advisor.
Matthew Slater working with Patriots as an advisor. https://t.co/jDeLavZ8GS
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 10, 2024
Matthew Slater retired from the Patriots after the 2023 season. However, hints of his continuing relationship with the team emerged as he was spotted at the facility, mingling with former teammates.
His active interaction aroused questions and subsequent clarifications about his new role within the organization.
The official confirmation came from none other than Patriots safety, Jabrill Peppers. He revealed that Slater was still closely associated with the team.
“It said advisor — whatever that means,” Peppers said, via Conor Ryan of Boston.com. “As long as I get to bounce some knowledge off of him and see him around the locker room, having Slate in the locker room, he uplifted spirits and always knew what to say. So I’m definitely happy we kept him in the building.”
The precise nature of the advisory role remains a little uncertain. Peppers shared this detail to the fans and media.
While it’s not cystal-clear whether Slater’s new position is full-time or part-time, his continued presence within the organization shouldn’t surprise anyone.
Slater has always been loyal to the Patriots, spending his entire 14-season career with the team.
He emerged not only as one of the top special teams’ players but also as a significant leader within the locker room.
Peppers indicated that Slater’s advisory position could be a strategic approach for the former player to stay engaged, while also taking care of his physical health, given his years of engagements on the field.
“I didn’t think he was done anyway,” Peppers told reporters at Gillette Stadium on Tuesday. “So I think this is his way to stay engaged but take the load off of his body, get some more time with the family, but also still be a part of the organization and doing the thing he loves to do.”
