Patriots honor Jerod Mayo by switching rookie Elandon Roberts' jersey number from 51 to 52

Jerod Mayo retired earlier this offseason and proudly the number 51 on the back of his jersey for all eight of his seasons in New England.

Mayo, when healthy, was one of the Patriots' premiere players at the linebacker position and he will not soon be forgotten. The Pats honored Mayo by switching rookie linebacker Elandon Roberts' jersey number from 51 to 52.

Is it a sign that the Patriots may one day retire Mayo's number? Possibly.

When he got the news, Mayo posted a picture of Mike Reiss's article on Instagram with a message attached to it.

I retired from the game as my ultimate sign of respect to the best organization, owner, coach, teammates and staff the Mayo family could have ever dreamed of. I gave my all and wanted to leave knowing I was able to always live my end of the bargain. I wanted and needed nothing more in return; the organization did enough. There is a thing in life called a "silent paycheck"; and ways to show gratitude. To the classiest organization in all of sports, and maybe even in all of business on behalf of Chantel, our children and I, we say thank you for one of the most humbling and unexpected silent paychecks we have ever received. 🙌🏾 #patsnation #always

A photo posted by Jerod Mayo (@jerod_mayo51) on May 13, 2016 at 5:21pm PDT

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