In an act that moved all of Patriots Nation, Julian Edelman – the icon of the “never give up” spirit in New England – announced that he will auction the final game jersey of his NFL career to support former teammate Brandon King, who is fighting early-stage Parkinson’s after retirement.

Edelman, who retired in 2021 after 12 seasons with the Patriots, is the face tied to the golden era of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady – 3-time Super Bowl champion, MVP of Super Bowl LIII, and called by fans “the undrafted hero.” But while Edelman’s name rings far, the teammate he is about to help – Brandon King, a diligent special teams member – is the symbol of the silent warriors rarely mentioned.

King joined the Patriots in 2015 in a small role, yet he quickly became a vital part of the special teams defense, contributing to two Super Bowl championships (LI and LIII) alongside Edelman. After years of quiet dedication and enduring constant injuries, he was forced to leave the NFL in 2022. Recently, King was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s, a disease that affects movement and balance, but he still keeps an optimistic spirit, continuing to coach children in Alabama – his hometown.

“Brandon never sought the spotlight. He’s the type of person who always put the team above himself,” Edelman shared in an interview with Patriots.com. “Now, as he’s fighting an opponent no one can see, I want to help him in the way football taught me – with action, not just words.”

All proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Patriots Former Players Health Fund, to support treatment costs for King and fund Parkinson’s research in former NFL athletes.

“This jersey once witnessed blood, sweat, and victory,” Edelman said. “If now it can bring hope to a brother, then that’s the greatest honor I’ve ever had.”To Patriots Nation, that gesture is not just compassion – but a reminder that in the New England family, the spirit of teamwork lives on, even when the final whistle has sounded.