I see it the other way. He never really produced as a WR until this year.
Therefore the overly positive Edelman were overrating in the past and in line now, while the less enthusiastic were correct then and he has grew beyond them now.
I'm talking about assessment, not prediction.
There is an old saying; "Does man make the times or do the times make the man.”
This is the first season Edelman has had the opportunity to consistently play and be a primary target.
2009
Week 5 vs. TEN he saw reps at the end of a 59-0 victory – 6 targets, 6 receptions 43 receiving yards.
Week 17 @ HOU he came in to replace Welker who left with a season ending knee injury – 15 targets, 10 receptions, 103 receiving yards.
Wildcard vs. BAL he played in place of Welker who was out for the year with a knee injury – 8 targets, 6 receptions, 44 receiving yards, 2 touchdowns.
2010
Week 17 vs. MIA he saw reps with the backups after team had clinched the division – 5 targets, 3 receptions, 72 receiving yards, 1 carry, 13 rushing yards.
2011 he primarily played CB and STs; he helped us get to the Super Bowl and then in 2012 when he was healthy he was effective as the third WR – 32 targets, 21 receptions, 235 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns, 4 carries, 45 rushing yards.