Julian Edelman has long held former Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens legend Steve Smith Sr. in utmost regard, even praising him as still one of the NFL's best deep into his two-decade career.
Wednesday, the NFL Network analyst and future Hall of Famer returned the volley with NBC Sports Boston's Michael Holley, saying that the Patriots star "has a PhD in route-running."
"There’s no route he can’t run," Smith said. "He can run the easy routes, but he can run the intricate routes, the double moves. He really understands the concept, understands the whole philosophy of their offense, and that’s why he’s one of their key guys in their offense."
MORE FROM MICHAEL HOLLEY
The Squirrel has moved into second place all-time in postseason receptions during these NFL playoffs, though he's got a ways to go to pass Jerry Rice at the top of the list. Edelman also broke the NFL record for most playoff punt returns in the Patriots' AFC Championship win over the Kansas City Chiefs.
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