Markus Golden Announces Retirement from NFL

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Linebacker Markus Golden has officially announced his retirement from the NFL after a successful nine-season career, primarily with the Arizona Cardinals. Drafted in the second round by Arizona in 2015, Golden recorded a total of 51 career sacks, with a standout performance in 2016 where he achieved a personal best of 12.5 sacks. His last season was spent with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played 16 games and contributed four sacks before being placed on the reserved/retired list on August 9. In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, the 33-year-old expressed gratitude for his time in the league, stating, “I’ve officially retired from the NFL after playing the game I’ve loved all my life.” Golden reflected on the fulfillment of his childhood dreams and goals, emphasizing the blessing of his football journey. Golden's career included four seasons with the Cardinals before a stint with the New York Giants in 2019, where he recorded 10 sacks. He returned to Arizona midway through the 2020 season and continued to be a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike. Notably, former three-time AP Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt praised Golden, calling him “one of my favorite teammates of all time,” highlighting the strong bonds formed during their time together in Arizona. As Golden steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy marked by dedication and camaraderie, cherished by both fans and fellow players.