Patriots' Matthew Slater Returning for 16th Season; 10-Time Special Teams Pro Bowler

One of the few remaining pieces from the Patriots dynasty, special teams ace Matthew Slater is set to return to New England for his 16th season in the NFL, according to a statement released by the organization Friday.

Slater, 37, is a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots and has been one of the most successful players in the history of the franchise.

He is a five-time All-Pro, a 10-time Pro Bowler and was named to New England's All-2010s team and All-Dynasty team.

"I couldn't be happier to learn that Matthew Slater has decided to return for his 16th season with the New England Patriots," Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft said. "Matthew's drive to be the best at what he does will one day earn him enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. ... There is no better leader for our younger players to follow and no better ambassador for the Patriots organization. He is truly special, and I am grateful that his contributions to the team will continue."

Slater is returning after signing a one-year extension with the team in March of last year, he will remain the longest active member of the organization.

"It is a great honor and blessing to return to the Patriots for my 16th season," Slater said. "I thank God for His continued grace and provision over my career. I look forward to continuing to play under the leadership of coach [Bill] Belichick. Thank you to the Kraft family and the entire Patriots organization for allowing me to continue to pursue my childhood dream. See you in the fall. God Bless."

The son of Hall of Famer Jackie Slater, Slater was picked by New England in the fifth round of the 2008 draft out of UCLA. He's gone on to play in 223 games, the second-most in franchise history and is the Patriots' all-time leader in special team tackles with 172 in the regular season and 23 in the postseason.

Slater has also played in 25 postseason games, ninth-most in NFL history.

Last season, Slater once again hit double-digit special teams tackles with 13. His 11 double-digit special team tackles seasons are the most in the league since 2000.