Matthew Slater just wrapped up his 13th NFL season and he has said over the last week he will now take some time with his family to decide whether to come back for season No. 14.
The special teams captain is under contract for one more season, but he will turn 36 years old next September.
Regardless of if he plays in 2021 or not, Slater was asked Monday via video conference if he would consider a role with the Patriots in a non-player capacity one day, and it seems like something he would be open to.
“That’s a great question. I love this organization, it’s the only real job I’ve ever had. I feel like I owe a debt to this organization," he said. "They’ve provided myself and my family with tremendous opportunity. I am always going to support this organization. If they ask me to do anything, as far as I see fit I will try to step up in that role.
“But, I haven’t thought about that and I don’t know what opportunities may present themselves beyond my playing career here, but I’d certainly keep an open mind to it. As long as it’s reasonable and it works for my family and I then it’s something I’d keep an open mind towards.”
Slater could fill a few roles if he wanted, potentially as a coach or even have a role similar to Jack Easterby a few years ago when he was the Patriots' team chaplain.