When Julian Edelman announced his retirement from football earlier this week, tributes poured in for the New England Patriots great.
Can Newton sent his regards to Edelman. So too did Tom Brady. But the most touching tribute came from Bill Belichick, who called Edelman "the ultimate competitor" in a statement.
Even five days later, the football world is continuing to honor Edelman's performance during his 11-year career. That includes former Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith.
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Smith, a potential top-10 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, was in attendance at Alabama's spring game on Saturday. He decided to rock some of Edelman's gear at the game, and the long-time Patriot was appreciative of his choice to do so.
Of course, Patriots fans may not like the all-black Yankees cap that Smith is wearing. Still though, Smith donning Edelman's gear is a nice tip of the cap to the former Super Bowl MVP.
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Smith will certainly try to emulate aspects of Edelman's career once he is drafted later this month. The two come from very different situations -- Edelman was a seventh-round converted quarterback while Smith won the Heisman and figures to be picked in the top half of the first round -- but needless to say, both are very talented.
Maybe if Smith somehow makes it to the 15th overall pick, the Patriots could consider picking him to bolster their receiving corps and help replace Edelman. Either way, expect them to go after some receiver help at some point during the '21 draft.