Fauria: Matthew Slater was 'one of the most respected Patriots' in team history

It’s not often a special teamer’s career is deemed “storied” but that just speaks to the legend of Matthew Slater.

The career Patriot announced his retirement Tuesday, making official something that had been expected for a while. He’ll go down as the greatest special teams gunner in New England history, and perhaps the entire league. Slater is one of few players who have made the case they deserve to be in the Hall of Fame as a special teams coverage player.

Although Slater made a massive impact in special teams, it was his leadership that ultimately stood out, especially later in his career. As an increasing number of Patriots from the dynasty era departed New England, Slater remained, and was a beacon for young and new players in the organization.

Former Patriots tight end Christian Fauria said Tuesday on Gresh & Fauria that Slater’s longevity and leadership stand out among his many positive attributes.

“He represents so much because he’s played so much, he lasted so much longer than anyone thought he would last because he doesn’t have a position,” Fauria said of Slater, who was technically listed as a wide receiver throughout his career. “He is a special teams guy that was more needed in the locker room than he really was on the field towards the end of his career.

“The impressive part is not necessarily his achievements on the field, because they’re significant, but it was just how long he was able to stay in the league. That’s what I’m always impressed with, how a guy can maneuver through a career and still have that team believe have value, when normally this position – and no disrespect to the special teams aspect of football, but it’s becoming the least important aspect of football. …

“The thing that stands out to me amongst a million other things with him, his character is second to none, he’s probably one of the most respected Patriots in the history of the Patriots, just as far as everything he does. He should be applauded for that. Because it’s hard to do and say the right thing, and I think he’s done everything the right way.”

It’s not clear what’s next for Slater. He’s a sure Patriots Hall of Famer at some point down the road, and would be a fantastic coach if that appealed to him. Regardless of what’s next, suffice it to say Slater has left a profound impact on the organization.