(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

The Patriots announced on Friday that Matthew Slater is planning on returning for a 16th season. The news comes as a surprise as many thought Slater would retire after last season.

https://twitter.com/patriots/status/1626746867080888329?s=46&t=9Iqn5tabXF_MierDSj4Scg

The announcement was met with universal applause. Slater is one of the greatest special teams players of all time and an all time great Patriot.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft and head coach Bill Belichick said in a statement that they are excited about Slater’s return.

Slater’s return isn’t just a big move on the field, it is also an important move in the locker room where Slater has been one of the team’s core leaders for years.

Normally people wouldn’t be this excited about a special teamer returning but the reactions of Kraft, Belichick, his teammates and fans illustrates just how revered and respected Slater is in New England.

You can never have enough guys like Slater on your roster. His contributions are invaluable.