Recently retired Julian Edelman to join the cast of 'Inside the NFL'

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman, who recently announced his retirement from the NFL, already has a new gig lined up.

Edelman has been hired to be an analyst for Showtime's "Inside the NFL" show, which is entering its 43rd year on TV this September.

The cast includes host James Brown, along with former NFL players Phil Simms and Brandon Marshall. Pro Football Hall of Famers Michael Irvin and Ray Lewis also contribute on a weekly basis.

The affable Edelman said the new role is a pretty good substitute for one of his other career aspirations.

“Growing up I had two dreams: to win a Super Bowl and to be Maverick from Top Gun. So far, only one of these dreams has come true,” Edelman said in a statement. “When it came time to start thinking about my life after football, the path was clear.

"... Joining the ViacomCBS and CBS Sports team became the obvious choice, leaving one dynasty for another. I’m honored to join the iconic show, Inside The NFL, and create original content with Coast Productions. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to chase down a different dream. Sorry, Goose. It’s time to buzz the tower.”

Edelman spent 12 years in the NFL, all with the Patriots. He was a three-time Super Bowl champion and and was named Super Bowl LIII MVP. He ranks second all-time in Patriots history in catches, with 620 — behind only Wes Welker. Edelman ranks fourth in club history with 6,820 receiving yards.

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman now has a new job — on TV. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)
Former New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman now has a new job — on TV. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

“Julian has been one of the greatest competitors and clutch performers in the NFL over the past decade, and we are excited to welcome him to Inside The NFL,” CBS/CBS Sports chairman Sean McManus said. “He will provide our viewers a fresh perspective and valuable insight having just stepped off the field. With his incredible career accomplishments, combined with his dedication, passion, and knowledge, we are looking forward to Julian joining our team.”

It's one of the longest-running shows on television, period, and it has tried to modernize its format with an edgier approach in bringing on outspoken personalities such as Marshall, Lewis and Irvin. How Edelman fits into that group dynamic will be interesting.

But he's got a decent sense of humor, plus a little bit of a fiery side and a more fresh perspective on the league than the rest of the cast, having just recently walked away from the game.

Will Edelman be a success? We're not sure. But it's never a bad thing to have an Edelman discussion that doesn't revolve around whether he belongs in the Hall of Fame or not.

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