Devante Parker, who was drafted with the fourteenth pick in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins, has reportedly abruptly retired from the NFL tonight, marking the end of a 9-year career in the NFL.
At just 31-years-old, Parker calls it quits earlier than most would have expected him to. He was set to play for the Philadelphia Eagles this season, a team that should be competitive in the NFC East with the Dallas Cowboys.
The Eagles lose an experienced and talented receiver that will finish his career with 369 catches for 5,266 yards and 27 touchdowns. Parker told reporters that he wants to spend more time with his family. He said,
I’m just going to take things slowly. I want to see my kids, spend quality time with them. I want to be there for them whenever I can
Devante Parker
When asked about what he will remember most about his NFL career, the veteran wide receiver told reporters,
“The camaraderie. The brotherhood in the locker room on whichever team it was. Everyone always welcomed me with open arms, and I appreciated them for that.”
“I also appreciate the Dolphins for drafting me and giving me the opportunity. I always will have love for the Dolphins and their organization. And I want to thank all the teams — the Patriots and the Eagles too. But the Dolphins were the first team, and I really want to thank them.”
Devante Parker On Retirement
While he never achieved championship success, Devante Parker was a solid wide receiver in the NFL for many years, and for many different teams. He was reliable, and above all else, talented.
Though he may not have lived up to his potential as a first round draft pick, Parker was extremely talented and contributed to many memorable plays that will be rerun forever.
