Tavon Austin announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday.
Austin, 34, has not played in a regular-season game since 2021.
“No matter how hard you work or how much you want something, sometimes God has other plans,” Austin wrote on Instagram. “I wasn’t sure if I was ready to give up football, and it was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. But after 10 incredible years, I’m officially retiring from the NFL.”
“First and foremost, I would like to thank God for making my childhood dream come true. God has blessed me beyond measure! I would like to thank my fans who have cheered me on and been there for me at all times. Without you, I would not have had my career. I would also like to thank all the organizations, coaches and staff who have given me the opportunity. I am so grateful for the opportunities, and I hope you all know that I played from my heart and gave my best every day, no matter the circumstances.”
The Los Angeles Rams selected Austin with the eighth overall pick in 2013, and he played 10 seasons in the NFL. He spent five seasons with the Rams before moving to the Cowboys, where he spent one season. He then spent a year in Green Bay and a year in Jacksonville.
Austin was on the Bills’ practice squad in 2022 before requesting his release.
He totaled 1,361 yards running, 2,239 yards receiving, 1,483 yards on punt returns, and 451 yards on kick returns. Austin also had 16 touchdowns as a receiver, 10 on the ground, and three touchdowns as a kickoff returner.
