Devin McCourty announces retirement from the NFL
Longtime Patriots safety will walk away from the game after 13 seasons
Longtime Patriots safety Devin McCourty has decided to retire.
The 35-year-old made his official announced on his social media accounts.
“It has been a great ride,” McCourty said. “I got the opportunity to talk to Mr. [Robert] Kraft, to talk to Bill [Belichick], a lot of the guys on the defensive staff. Unbelievable ride, man.”
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick made a statement on his former safety.
"It is a rare group of players who win games at a historic rate, exude team culture, lead, win awards, and win championships," said Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. "And then there is Devin McCourty. Devin did all of those things as a player and more. But, what I think of first when I think of Devin is the type of man he is, his character, his values and how high he raised the bar for spreading goodness and justice in the community. For 13 years, Devin made everyone in our organization feel better and be better because of who he is – a pillar of professionalism, unselfishness, work ethic, preparation, intelligence and performance. I am excited to see him bring those same traits to his next chapter and brighten the lives of even more people."
McCourty will step away from the gridiron after 13 seasons, all with the Patriots. He’s a 12-time team captain, three-time Super Bowl champion, and two-time Pro Bowler.
On the field, McCourty was a consistent leader and performed at a high level every season. He’ll finish with 971 tackles, including 20 for a loss, 110 passes defensed, 35 interceptions, 11 forced fumbles, and two pick-sixes over his career.
McCourty missed only five games in 13 seasons, taking part in fewer than 95 percent of the New England’s defensive snaps, per Paul Perillo of Patriots.com.
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