**Ndamukong Suh Announces Retirement from the NFL After 13 Dominant Seasons**
Five-time All-Pro defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has officially announced his retirement from the NFL, bringing an end to a storied 13-year career that saw him establish himself as one of the most dominant defensive forces of his generation. The 37-year-old Suh made the announcement via social media, thanking fans, teammates, and coaches while reflecting on a journey that included a Super Bowl championship, numerous individual accolades, and a reputation as one of the most feared interior linemen in league history.
Suh’s retirement marks the end of an era for defensive linemen who combined brute strength, technical mastery, and relentless aggression to disrupt opposing offenses. Drafted second overall by the Detroit Lions in 2010 out of Nebraska, Suh immediately made his presence felt, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year and setting the tone for a career defined by consistent excellence. His rare blend of size, power, and athleticism allowed him to dominate in both run defense and pass rushing—a versatility that made him a nightmare for offensive coordinators.
Over his 13 seasons, Suh played for five teams: the Detroit Lions (2010-2014), Miami Dolphins (2015-2017), Los Angeles Rams (2018), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2019-2021), and Philadelphia Eagles (2022). While his tenure in Detroit cemented his reputation as an elite defender, his later years showcased his ability to adapt and contribute to championship-caliber teams. His crowning achievement came in the 2020 season when he helped lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl LV victory, recording 1.5 sacks in the title game against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Suh’s career statistics speak for themselves: 71.5 sacks, 144 tackles for loss, 19 forced fumbles, and 4 interceptions—remarkable numbers for an interior defensive lineman. His five All-Pro selections (three First-Team, two Second-Team) place him among the most decorated defensive tackles in NFL history, alongside legends like Warren Sapp, Aaron Donald, and John Randle.
What set Suh apart was not just his production but his sheer physicality. At 6’4” and 305 pounds, he played with a rare combination of explosiveness and technique, often overpowering double teams and collapsing pockets with ease. His ability to take over games was evident early in his career, particularly during his peak years in Detroit, where he anchored one of the league’s most formidable defensive lines.
However, Suh’s aggressive style of play also earned him a controversial reputation. He was frequently fined by the NFL for what the league deemed “dirty plays,” including stomping incidents, late hits, and unnecessary roughness penalties. While critics labeled him as a villain, teammates and coaches praised his intensity and leadership, often describing him as the ultimate competitor who elevated those around him.
After leaving the Lions in 2015 for a massive six-year, $114 million contract with the Miami Dolphins—then the richest deal for a defensive player in NFL history—Suh continued to perform at a high level, though team success eluded him in South Florida. A brief stint with the Rams in 2018 saw him reach Super Bowl LIII, where Los Angeles fell to the Patriots.
But it was in Tampa Bay where Suh found the perfect fit late in his career. Paired with Vita Vea and a resurgent Bucs defense, Suh played a pivotal role in Tom Brady’s championship run, proving he could still dominate in big moments despite being in his mid-30s. His veteran presence and playoff experience were invaluable to a young Bucs team, and his performance in Super Bowl LV was a fitting capstone to his legacy.
Even in his final season with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022, Suh showed flashes of his old self, contributing to a team that reached Super Bowl LVII. Though the Eagles fell short, Suh’s ability to step into a contending team midseason and make an immediate impact spoke volumes about his professionalism and enduring skill.
With retirement now official, the question becomes: what’s next for Ndamukong Suh? Given his intelligence, work ethic, and deep understanding of the game, a transition into coaching or broadcasting seems plausible. He has previously expressed interest in business ventures, including real estate and philanthropy, particularly in his hometown of Portland, Oregon.
Suh’s impact extends beyond the field. He has been actively involved in charitable work, including donations to his alma mater, the University of Nebraska, and initiatives supporting education and underprivileged youth. His philanthropic efforts earned him the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year nomination in 2020, highlighting his commitment to giving back.
The debate over Suh’s Hall of Fame credentials will undoubtedly heat up in the coming years. While his on-field dominance is unquestioned, his polarizing reputation and lack of multiple championships could factor into voters’ decisions. However, his five All-Pro selections, Defensive Rookie of the Year, and Super Bowl ring make a strong case. When compared to other defensive tackles already enshrined in Canton, Suh’s résumé holds up favorably.
Ndamukong Suh’s retirement closes the book on one of the most impactful defensive careers of the 21st century. Whether remembered for his bone-crushing tackles, his fiery competitiveness, or his late-career resurgence as a champion, Suh leaves behind a legacy that few defensive tackles can match.
As he steps away from the game, the NFL loses a true force of nature—a player who redefined what it meant to be an interior disruptor. For fans who watched him terrorize quarterbacks and bulldoze offensive lines for over a decade, Suh’s retirement is a reminder of just how rare and special his talent was.
Thank you, Ndamukong Suh, for 13 unforgettable seasons. The league won’t be the same without you.
