Yet another NFL player has opted for an early retirement.
The latest is a former Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman.
Ade Ogundeji announced his retirement from the NFL on his Instagram. He’s 26 years old.
“I want to thank God for this beautiful amazing sport!” Ogundeji wrote on Instagram. “I wouldn’t be where I am in life without it. It taught me fight, discipline, dedication and so much more. It also brought me so many people who have blessed me and also amazing connections with great people that I will cherish and never forget. It brought brothers and family that will be by my side for the rest of my life.
“I was truly scared whenever I realized my time was done. I thought I lost myself and was truly in a dark place. But God and only God made me realize that this is just the beginning and that there is more out there for me.
“I was never perfect on or off the field even though I tried my hardest to be. However, I put everything I had in the sport and had absolutely zero regrets. I realized now that I was made to serve for others and that this journey was only the beginning! Now I’m excited to take on the next step! And I know God will be with me every step of the way!
“Thank you to everyone who got me here: family, coaches, friends and most importantly my teammates and brothers. I want to thank the Southfield Falcons, Walled Lake Central, Notre Dame, Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers for giving me this opportunity, and all the people who blessed me along the way! All love – Ade out.”
MORE: Browns rookie QB Shedeur Sanders could be subject to a ‘second draft’
Ogundeji was a fifth-round pick by the Falcons in 2021. He started 11 games as a rookie, then 16 games in 2022.
He was hurt during the 2023 season, cut by Atlanta and signed on with Pittsburgh for 2024. The Steelers kept him on the practice squad and called him up in October, but he was cut by December.
Ogundeji finished his career with 35 NFL games played that included 75 tackles and 3.0 sacks.
Now, Ogundeji moves on to what’s next.
MORE NFL NEWS:
