Patriots' Edelman: 'Tough times don't last, tough people do'

New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman spoke publicly Tuesday for the first time since the team confirmed a torn ACL suffered last week would force him to miss the upcoming season.

"I will approach this rehab process the only way I know how, with everything I have," Edelman said in a brief statement.

"Tough times don't last, tough people do," he added.

The gritty slot receiver has developed a strong rapport with Tom Brady throughout his eight seasons in the NFL and was expected to be one of the focal points of the team's offense again this season. Last year, Edelman led the Patriots in receptions (98) and receiving yards (1,106).

Though such a significant injury is a devastating blow to any player, Edelman sounded genuinely relieved by the encouragement he's received from Patriots fans.

"This has been an extremely trying week," he said. "That being said, the amount of support I have received since Friday night is truly humbling ... thank you to everyone for your unwavering love and support."

Edelman made one the most clutch contested catches in Super Bowl history last season, helping propel the Patriots to their momentous comeback against the Atlanta Falcons, in which the receiver earned his second career championship ring.