NFL Players That Have Retired In 2025
The 2025 NFL offseason has marked the end of an era for many beloved players who have left an indelible mark on the game.
From franchise quarterbacks to dominant linemen and electrifying playmakers, this year’s retirements feature a star-studded group of athletes who defined their positions and inspired fans across the league.
These players not only brought talent and passion to the field but also served as leaders and icons for their teams, leaving legacies that will be celebrated for years to come.
In this article, we take a closer look at the players who have decided to hang up their cleats in 2025, celebrating their achievements and the impact they’ve had on the game.
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1. Za’Darius Smith
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Za’Darius Smith, a standout NFL edge rusher, has officially announced his retirement, closing out an impressive professional career. Smith, who joined the Philadelphia Eagles in September 2025, started two of his five games for the team and notched 1.5 sacks in that brief stint. Notably, he made a game-changing sack that forced the Denver Broncos out of field goal range. His playing time decreased recently, with a season-low 17 snaps in his final game.
Smith amassed strong career statistics, playing 143 games throughout his 11 seasons. He totaled 339 tackles, including 222 solo and 117 assisted, alongside 69.5 career sacks. He also recorded 10 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries, underscoring his value as a disruptive pass rusher. Smith’s career included significant contributions with the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, Browns, Lions, and Eagles, establishing himself as one of the most impactful defenders of his era
2. Xavien Howard – CB
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Xavien Howard, Indianapolis Colts cornerback and four-time Pro Bowler, announced his retirement from the NFL after four games this season. The 32-year-old cited a desire to prioritize his family and faith. Howard, a two-time league interceptions leader, leaves behind a decorated career, including 29 interceptions and two All-Pro selections.
3. Derek Carr – QB
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The longtime Raiders quarterback, known for his leadership and precision passing, retired after a decade in the league. Carr leaves behind a legacy of resilience and professionalism.
4. Julio Jones – WR
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One of the most dominant wide receivers of his era, Jones retired as a seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, leaving an indelible mark on the Atlanta Falcons and the NFL.
5. Patrick Peterson – CB
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The eight-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro cornerback retired after a stellar career, known for his lockdown coverage and versatility in the secondary.
6. Zack martin – G
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A cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive line, Martin retired as one of the best guards in NFL history, earning eight Pro Bowl nods and six All-Pro selections.
7. Frank Ragnow – C
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The Lions’ reliable center retired after anchoring Detroit’s offensive line for several seasons, earning Pro Bowl recognition for his consistency and toughness.
8. Tyron Smith – OT
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A dominant force at left tackle for the Cowboys, Smith retired as an eight-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, solidifying his place as one of the best offensive linemen of his generation.
9. Terron Armstead – OT
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Known for his athleticism and technique, Armstead retired after a successful career with the Saints and Dolphins, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections.
10. Ryan Ramczyk – OT
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The Saints’ stalwart right tackle retired after years of elite play, highlighted by an All-Pro selection and multiple Pro Bowl appearances.
11. Jason Peters – OT
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A future Hall of Famer, Peters retired after a remarkable 20-year career, earning nine Pro Bowl nods and two All-Pro selections as one of the best left tackles in NFL history.
12. Mike WIlliams – WR
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The Chargers’ big-bodied receiver retired after a career marked by highlight-reel catches and a knack for making plays in critical moments.
13. CJ Mosley – LB
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The four-time Pro Bowler retired as one of the most consistent and intelligent linebackers of his era, leaving a lasting impact on the Ravens and Jets.
14. Ndamukong Suh – DT
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A dominant defensive tackle and Super Bowl champion, Suh retired after a career defined by his power, durability, and disruptive presence on the line.
15. Brandon Graham – DE
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The Eagles’ heart and soul on defense retired after 13 seasons, highlighted by a Super Bowl-winning strip-sack and a Pro Bowl selection.
16. Sam Hubbard – DE
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The Bengals’ defensive end retired after a solid career, known for his relentless motor and key contributions to Cincinnati’s defense.
17. David Andrews – C
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The Patriots’ dependable center retired after anchoring their offensive line for nearly a decade, earning two Super Bowl rings along the way.
18. Micah Hyde – S
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The versatile safety retired after a stellar career with the Packers and Bills, earning a Pro Bowl nod and a reputation as a playmaker in the secondary.
19. Mason Crosby – K
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The Packers’ all-time leading scorer retired after 16 seasons, leaving behind a legacy of clutch kicks and consistency.
20. Mitch Morse – C
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The Bills’ reliable center retired after a career marked by his intelligence and leadership on one of the league’s top offensive lines.
21. Michael Pierce – DT
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The run-stuffing defensive tackle retired after a career spent anchoring the interior for the Ravens and Vikings.
22. Keanu Neal – LB/S
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Known for his hard-hitting style, Neal retired after a career as a hybrid linebacker-safety, making an impact with the Falcons and Cowboys.
23. John Cominsky – DE
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The versatile defensive end retired after a solid career, contributing as a rotational player for the Falcons and Lions.
24. Jordan Travis -QB
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The former Florida State standout retired after a brief NFL stint, transitioning to a new chapter in his football journey.
25. Chris Conley – WR
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The speedy wide receiver retired after a career spent as a reliable target for multiple teams, known for his athleticism and professionalism.
