C.J. Mosley retires after 11 years in the NFL
- C.J. Mosley announced his retirement after 11 seasons in the NFL.
- Mosley experienced significant injuries in his last season, playing only four games.
- His decision marks the end of a distinguished career, during which he was a five-time Pro Bowl selection.
C.J. Mosley, a five-time Pro Bowl linebacker, has announced his retirement from the National Football League on June 19, 2025, coinciding with his 33rd birthday. He concluded an 11-year career that began when he was selected 17th overall by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2014 NFL Draft. Mosley had notable success during his career, playing for both the Ravens and the New York Jets, where he made a significant impact as a leader on defense. However, his final seasons were marred by injuries that limited his playing time, resulting in just four games played in the last season. Born and raised in Theodore, Alabama, Mosley made waves in college football by playing for the University of Alabama under coach Nick Saban. He earned accolades including the Butkus Award for best linebacker in college football, contributing to Alabama's national championships in 2011 and 2012. After being drafted by the Ravens, he quickly established himself as a premier linebacker, earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie and three more times during his tenure with the team before signing a lucrative five-year contract with the Jets in 2019. His time with the Jets was characterized by highs and lows; while he showcased his talent, including leading the team in tackles, injuries hindered his performance in the later years. Mosley opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic but returned in 2021 to post impressive numbers, including a career-high of 168 combined tackles. However, during the 2024 season, injuries limited him to four games, leading to uncertainty about his future and eventually his release from the team. Mosley's announcement about his retirement reflects a readiness to transition from football to other pursuits, as he expressed a desire to share his experiences and knowledge with the next generation. His departure from the game prompts reflections on his legacy as a significant player and leader in the NFL. The reactions from his former teammates and the Jets’ organization underscore the impact he had on those around him during his career.