Julian Edelman already knew what it felt prefer to put on a Tremendous Bowl ring earlier than he gained his personal.
The previous longtime Patriots receiver can thank his ex-girlfriend, and an NFL legend, for the expertise.
Edelman, 37, detailed his expertise relationship 49ers icon and NFL Corridor of Famer Jerry Rice’s daughter whereas in highschool throughout an interview on “No Chill with Gilbert Arenas” not too long ago, and made a confession about his visits to the Rice family.
“I’ll let you know one factor: When Jerry wasn’t there, I used to be placing on his Tremendous Bowl rings and every part,” Edelman admitted.
Rice, thought-about by many as the best receiver ever and one of many biggest soccer gamers to ever dwell, gained three Tremendous Bowl titles with the 49ers earlier than two shorter stints on the finish of his profession with the Raiders and Seahawks.
He nonetheless holds the document for many profession receiving yards, receptions and touchdowns.
Maybe Edelman attempting on Rice’s three Tremendous Bowl rings was becoming, as a result of he went on to win three Tremendous Bowls of his personal with the Patriots, the one group he performed for.
Edelman took Rice’s daughter to promenade throughout highschool, and mentioned that he was “terrified” of Rice at first.
“I keep in mind the primary time I came visiting and Jerry got here out along with his chain on — no shirt, six packed up — and simply gave me a head nod,” Edelman mentioned. “And that was just like the final time we talked in like two years. It was scary.
“I used to be terrified. And I’ve a bit woman now, so I perceive, you understand, so that you type of you get it. Just a little punk, little child coming into the home considering he’s relationship a daughter and stuff.”
Edelman retired in 2021.
Regardless of his preliminary sentiment, Edelman had nothing however reward for the Rice household.
“The household was superior. They had been all cool, and nonetheless mates of today,” Edelman mentioned. “After which after I obtained to, you understand, it was loopy, after I obtained to the league afterwards, we developed a relationship. It grew to become cool. I nonetheless see him at the [Kentucky] Derby right here and there. I see him out and about, and he’s been actual cool as of late.”