Mosley forgets about the NFL

CJ Mosley is ready to face life beyond football.

A five-time Pro Bowl selection during an 11-year NFL career with the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens, Mosley announced his retirement yesterday, his 33rd birthday.

Mosley was released by the Jets in March after playing only four games last season due to a toe injury and subsequently a herniated disk in his neck.

A popular leader during his NFL career, Mosley made the announcement with a two-minute, ten-second video on his Instagram page titled “Once upon a time…” that included highlights from his playing career.

“Today, it’s time to awaken from my childhood dream and share it with the next generation,” Mosley said. “I’ve spent my entire life and career building my legacy. Now it’s time to begin a new chapter with new dreams. It won’t be easy, but I’m here to tell you that every sacrifice is worth it.”

Mosley, Baltimore's 17th overall pick in the 2014 draft, had nearly 1,100 career tackles with 12 sacks, 12 interceptions, 10 forced fumbles, nine fumble recoveries and three touchdowns.

He played five outstanding seasons with the Ravens before signing a five-year, $85 million contract with the Jets in 2019, becoming the heart of New York's defense as one of the NFL's top tacklers.

“Captain! Thankful for the memories, couldn’t have asked for a better leader!” former Jets teammate and current Broncos defensive end John Franklin-Myers commented on Mosley’s post.

As a pro, Mosley became the first Ravens player voted to the Pro Bowl as a rookie. He was selected three more times before leaving for New York and signing what was then the largest free-agent contract for an inside linebacker.

He opted out of playing in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but returned the following season. He was limited by injuries last season and said he was unsure about his future as a player.— EFE