Former Patriots star Julian Edelman drops a major hint about potential return to NFL

Julian Edelman called it a career after the 2021 season. He spent his entire 12-year career with the New England Patriots before retiring. He is just 36 years old, so a potential comeback was talked about as soon as he retired.

He's remained out of the league this season, despite his friend and longtime teammate Tom Brady's Tampa Bay Buccaneers needing help on offense. However, he might have just hinted about his future plans with the NFL.

He teased a return in A Football Life: Julian Edelman, saying:

"Might have to do a part two on this- I don't know. There's about 12 plays a game, I guarantee I could get open and catch a ball right now. Because we all know football season starts after Thanksgiving."

An Edelman comeback?

Don't rule it out 👀

A Football Life: Julian @Edelman11 - Tonight 9pm ET on @NFLNetwork https://t.co/wcuodQ9LWE

The former wide receiver knew the official footage would air in November, which is why he teased that he could return after the holiday. It's possible he's planning to join either his former team or Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, both of whom could use a wide receiver right now.

Where would Julian Edelman play if he returned?

Given that he played his entire career in New England, it's hard to imagine his number 11 jersey being any different color. He spent 12 seasons there and became an iconic figure, especially in the postseason.

If he does return, the New England Patriots will probably be the favorites. However, it would certainly be hard to ignore Tampa Bay. For starters, it's not nearly as cold and bitter as the New England area is in the winter.

Additionally, the division there is much weaker. The Buccaneers don't have much competition for the division title and the AFC East is arguably the best division in football. Playing with Brady is an opportunity he'd probably love to have again.

There's no telling if he genuinely wants to return to the NFL, or if he will be able to. However, he'd have two plausible options as far as his next team goes. Edelman might have a tough decision on his hands.