Eric Decker is hanging up his cleats for good.
On Sunday, the Patriots receiver and former Jet announced his retirement from the NFL after eight seasons.
“It has been my childhood dream and my passion to play the game of football. I was very fortunate and blessed to have had the opportunity to have those dreams fulfilled and to have played with such extremely talented and hard-working teammates, coaches and staff,” Decker, 31, wrote Sunday on Instagram.
“This has been a passion inside of me since I was a little boy but I know now it is time to hang my helmet up and start a new chapter in my life.”
Decker signed a one-year deal with the Patriots earlier this month, but struggled in training camp and in exhibition games. He completed a mediocre season with the Titans last year.
“I love football and always will. It will continue to be part of my life,” Decker penned. “I’m looking forward to spending more time with my wife and kids. I want to give a special thank you to my family, friends and fans for all your support on this incredible journey. It’s been an amazing chapter in my life.”
Drafted in the third round by the Broncos in 2010, Decker spent four seasons in Denver, helping then-quarterback Peyton Manning chase another Super Bowl title in 2013, before landing with the Jets in March 2014. He spent three seasons with the Jets, catching 163 passes for more than 2,000 yards and 19 touchdowns. After the 2016 season, in which he only played three games because of a shoulder injury, he was released.
“I look forward to the future and the many adventures ahead!” Decker wrote.
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