NFL Player Announces Sudden Retirement Before Playing For New Team

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVante Parker announced his sudden retirement before ever playing in a game for the team.

Parker, who signed a one-year, $4.69 million contract with the Eagles as a free agent in March, told ESPN's Adam Schefter that he plans to retire after nine NFL seasons in order to spend more time with his four children.

"I want to see my kids, spend quality time with them," Parker said during an exclusive interview on Monday (May 20). "I want to be there for them whenever I can."

Parker was selected by the Miami Dolphins at No. 14 overall in the 2015 NFL Draft and spent his first seven NFL seasons with the franchise before being traded to the AFC East Division rival New England Patriots in 2022. The former University of Louisville standout finishes his career with 369 receptions for 5,266 yards and 27 touchdowns.

"The camaraderie," Parker said when asked by Schefter what he'll remember most about his NFL career. "The brotherhood in the locker room on whichever team it was. Everyone always welcomed me with open arms, and I appreciated them for that.

"I also appreciate the Dolphins for drafting me and giving me the opportunity. I always will have love for the Dolphins and their organization," he said. "And I want to thank all the teams -- the Patriots and the Eagles too. But the Dolphins were the first team, and I really want to thank them."

The Eagles will only have to pay $1.2 million of Parker's $4.69 million deal, the rest of which will be paid by the Patriots. Philadelphia also signed fellow veteran wide receiver Parris Campbell and selected former Texas A&M wide receiver Ainias Smith and former Florida State wide receiver Johnny Wilson in the 2024 NFL Draft to provide depth to a position group that features starters A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, both of whom received massive extensions this offseason.