Patriots Veteran Starter Announces NFL Retirement

The New England Patriots will once again be without one of the mainstays from their recent Super Bowl teams in 2021.

Longtime starting safety Patrick Chung announced his retirement on Thursday via Instagram.

The 33-year-old, who opted out of the 2020 season over concerns about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, shared a lengthy statement announcing his decision.

“I’m in tears writing this but I’ve decided to hang up the cleats,” Chung wrote. “Bill [Belichick], Mr. [Robert] Kraft (mean mug) thank you for giving me the opportunity to play for your team for 11 years. I love you.”

Chung was selected by the Patriots at No. 34 overall in the second-round of the 2009 NFL Draft. The veteran safety left to join the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013, but returned to New England the following season, where he spent the remainder of this playing career.

Chung was a member of the Patriots' last three Super Bowl teams in 2014, 2016 and 2018 and averaged 15 games per season from 2014-19, despite playing with a physical style, typically drawing praise from Belichick for his toughness.

“Bill for teaching me life on and off the field, I will not forget that,” Chung wrote in his message. “To my teammates, trainers, Eq team, video guys, meal room employees, janitors, etc. I love you guys and ladies. Thank you for being the rock to the organization. For clearning up, feeding, taking care of me for 11 years. You will forever be family. But it’s time to start a new life. Patriot until I die!!! Love you all.”

Chung recorded 778 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, 11 interceptions, two forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and one defensive touchdown during his NFL career. He was also selected as a Patriots team captain in 2018 and a member of New England's All-2010s team as a safety.

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