We’ve grown used to seeing lengthier NFL careers because of advancements in health and fitness programs, surgical improvements, and safer game regulations.
But a new era of players not feeling the urge to prolong their careers may soon be upon the league. While some will unavoidably continue to strive for records and championships, others may give up far earlier than anticipated.
There are numerous explanations for why athletes choose to quit their careers while still having great performance potential. The unexpected retirement of Andrew Luck in 2019 was caused by injuries. And this offseason, after ten seasons and a Hall of Fame career, Aaron Donald announced his retirement, saying that his “passion” for the game had diminished.
In addition, players are making more money in less time. Many players will be able to put their health and lifestyle above potential long-term earnings due to factors like a rising salary cap, bigger contracts, the introduction of NIL money, and an evolving media landscape that has created a plethora of post-playing opportunities. Players like Steven Nelson, Jason Kelce, Darren Waller, Donald, and others have done just that this offseason.
In light of this, let’s look at seven current NFL players and explain why they might retire earlier than others.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, continues to be perceived as the NFL’s new face in many aspects. However, he will turn 30 early in the 2025 season, and it’s possible that his career is coming to an end rather than starting anew.
Considering Kansas City’s longstanding reputation as a Super Bowl favorite, that may seem absurd. He has won three Super Bowls, never missed an AFC title game, and his career hasn’t been significantly damaged by injuries since he started playing full-time in 2018.
While the 28-year-old is trying to surpass Tom Brady in the record books, he has also stated that he isn’t sure he will have the same extended career as the NFL legend.
To quote Mahomes, “I would love to play that long,” according to Time’s Sean Gregory. “I want to support my daughter at the same time. I’ll play some more if I can accomplish it. However, I’ll know it’s time to leave if I feel like it’s interfering with my family time.”
In addition to his $136.3 million in earnings, Mahomes has demonstrated his marketability off the field by landing many endorsement deals. If he retired today, he would also be inducted into the Hall of Fame due to his accomplishments.
If he wants to equal or surpass Brady’s seven Super Bowl victories, time seems to be on his side, but that isn’t the case for other important Chiefs players like Chris Jones and Travis Kelce. Kansas City might not always be the dominant squad that it is now.
And if by then catching Brady doesn’t seem possible, Mahomes might abruptly move on to enjoy his family life.
Leave a Reply