Last year, Matthew Slater was helping to coach New England Patriots players. This year, his focus is on learning from his kids.
In an appearance on Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski’s “Dudes on Dudes” podcast, the Patriots special teams legend gave an update on what his life looks like since leaving his role on New England’s coaching staff.
“I’m in full dad mode right now. I’m enjoying my time at home,” Slater said.
Following his retirement in 2023, Slater took on a role as special assistant to the head coach, working under Jerod Mayo last season. But with the coaching staff getting overhauled under Mike Vrabel, it was reported that Slater would not return in 2025.
Slater, who has four children, says he’s plenty content to be focusing on his family.
“There’s no feeling like it,” Slater said. “The joy you get when you’re with your children, it’s just indescribable.”
Slater is considered one of the greatest special teams players of all time. Drafted as a wide receiver in 2008, Slater carved out a role in the kicking game under Bill Belichick and eventually made 10 Pro Bowls and earned five All-Pro nods.
But instead of coaching players, Slater says he’s been learning a lot about “honesty and transparency” from his four kids.
“If I ever try to if I ever try to skirt the line of truth, my kids would call me out quick,” Slater said. “‘Well, you didn’t say that yesterday.’ Or, “Mommy said this.’ They hold your feet to the fire every day.”
Slater may be in full dad mode for now, but he still has plans for the future. He told Edelman and Gronkowski that he plans to go back to school and hopes to earn an MBA.
“Been applying to schools, I feel like a teenager again. It’s like, doing these essays and looking into school, but I’m excited,” Slater said.