In a move that was at least partially expected, Devin McCourty announced his retirement from the NFL after 13 years — all with the Patriots — that included three Super Bowl titles.
He made the announcement with his twin brother, Jason, on social media.
"I am officially retiring from the NFL. It has been a great ride,” McCourty said.
“I think it’s always kinda tough to come to the end. This whole offseason has been so much back and forth for me mentally... But ultimately I think this is the best decision for me, my family, for my career. (I can) now look back at my 13 years and just enjoy”
McCourty, 35, originally joined the team as a first-round draft pick (27th overall) in the 2010 NFL Draft out of Rutgers. He earned a Pro Bowl nod at cornerback as a rookie, and then smoothly transitioned to free safety, where he was a two-time second-team All-Pro. McCourty has played the most defensive snaps across the league since entering the NFL in 2010 with 12,506. Patrick Peterson is second with 11,549 defensive snaps. He's a shoo-in for the Patriots Hall of Fame.
"As a Patriots fan, it's always bittersweet to see such an iconic player announce his retirement, but I couldn't be happier for Devin, Michelle, and the McCourty family or more thankful to his mother, Phyllis," said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. "Through his individual performance and overall leadership, Devin has been such an important part of the success we have enjoyed over the past 13 seasons, including each of our last three Super Bowl championships. As great as his contributions were on the field, he made an even greater impact in the community, taking a leadership role in his advocacy for finding a cure for sickle cell anemia, effecting legislative change for criminal justice reform, and championing countless other educational and economical advancement initiatives. We couldn't have asked for a better leader and ambassador, both on and off the field."
"It is a rare group of players who win games at a historic rate, exude team culture, lead, win awards, and win championships," said Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. "And then there is Devin McCourty. Devin did all of those things as a player and more. But, what I think of first when I think of Devin is the type of man he is, his character, his values and how high he raised the bar for spreading goodness and justice in the community. For 13 years, Devin made everyone in our organization feel better and be better because of who he is – a pillar of professionalism, unselfishness, work ethic, preparation, intelligence and performance. I am excited to see him bring those same traits to his next chapter and brighten the lives of even more people."
McCourty finished his career totaling 938 tackles, three sacks, 110 passes defensed, 11 forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries. The four-time Pro Bowler’s 35 career interceptions in the regular season are the most among all active NFL players and rank behind the 36 interceptions by Ty Law and Raymond Clayborn in team history. He is also tied for second in team history with 42 total takeaways.
McCourty had four total touchdowns in his career following a return of a blocked punt for a touchdown, two interceptions returned for touchdowns and 104-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
The team will host a press conference and provide media availability with McCourty at the Patriots Hall of Fame on Tuesday afternoon, March 14.
BSJ ANALYSIS
Not exactly a huge surprise, but a bit disappointing for the Patriots because he was still a good player, even if he had slowed down.
We figured this was coming, so that's why we had free safety as the No. 1 need on our list — the Patriots don't have a perfect ready replacement (again). But there are options internally.
On a personal level, I wish Devin and his family all the best. As a Rutgers guy, he's been in my life before he got to the Patriots and he's been a part of a lot of big games in my life. He's absolutely one of the good guys in this game, just great all-around, and did everything the right way. He's a credit to his parents and those who have supported him throughout his journey. I have always been immensely proud that he represents our alma mater.