Former New England Patriots special teams captain Matthew Slater, who served as an assistant coach last season, opened up about not returning on Mike Vrabel's new coaching staff in 2025.
Slater spent the 2024 season as an advisor to former Patriots coach Jerod Mayo. He rejoined the Patriots after a decorated playing career that saw him become one of the greatest special team gunners of all time.
He won three Super Bowls and made ten Pro Bowls, establishing himself as the cornerstone of the Patriots special teams operation. The legendary special teamer held that role from 2008-2023 before officially announcing his retirement.