New England Patriots Captain Matthew Slater Rejects Tanking: 'I Want to Win!'

Even with the New England Patriots off to the worst start to a season in 30 years, longtime captain Matthew Slater isn't throwing in the towel.

With the New England Patriots season seemingly worsening with each passing week, the idea of just throwing in the proverbial white towel and tanking for a high NFL Draft pick is inevitably a thought on fans' minds. 

As things currently stand, the Patriots would own the No. 3 pick with two games to spare between them and the No. 4 Chicago Bears. 

The potential of holding a top pick in the upcoming draft has become a lone bright light in an otherwise dim season for the Patriots. However, even with the franchise looking set for a rebuild, and one that could aided by a top pick, a recent interview on WEEI's "Jones & Mego" show, team captain Matthew Slater revealed that he isn't done trying to win.

“I personally try to put myself in positions to understand everyone’s mode of thinking. I understand that rationale, I understand fans having an opinion or hopes and expectations of what we do,” Slater said about the idea of fans wanting the team to tank. “And I don’t have a problem with that. I’m not offended by it.

Sep 10, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Matthew Slater (18) on the sideline during the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Gillette Stadium.   / Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

“I think as a player, though — especially a player in my situation — you realize opportunities in this league are never guaranteed. And, you know, as easy as it is for the fans or pundits to look ahead to the future, as a player your future is never guaranteed. especially for someone in my position. ... So, the idea of losing games or tanking will never appeal to players … I want to win the next six games.” 

It isn't a surprising answer from Slater, who put off retirement for at least another year to play his 16th season. Yet, even with this season not going as the 38-year-old may have envisioned, the five-time first-team All-Pro and three-time Super Bowl champion remains hungry for more success.

The Patriots are 2-9 and, despite having no chance of finishing with a winning record, aren't officially eliminated from playoff contention yet. However, that could change with a loss on Sunday to the Los Angeles Chargers and some wins elsewhere.

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Yet, even with the tiniest amount of hope still alive for a miraculous turnaround and a fanbase that wants to move on from a disastrous season, there is still plenty to play for in the case of the 10-time Pro Bowl special teamer.

Slater and co. hope to break their four-game winning streak as the Patriots host the Chargers on Sunday. Kickoff inside Gillette Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. EST.

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