DeVante Parker announces NFL retirement after 9 seasons

Philadelphia Eagles receiver DeVante Parker has announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Parker, 31, is stepping away to spend more time with his family.

“I want to see my kids, spend quality time with them,” Parker said. “I want to be there for them whenever I can.”

Parker signed a one-year contract with the Eagles earlier this offseason. He spent the previous two seasons with the New England Patriots, hauling in 64 receptions for 933 yards and three touchdowns in 26 games. Prior to his arrival in New England, he spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Miami Dolphins, who selected him in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Louisville.

DeVante Parker thanks Dolphins, Patriots

Parker suited up in 93 games in Miami, tallying 338 receptions for 4,727 yards and 24 touchdowns. He recorded a career high 72 catches for 1,202 yards and nine scores in 2019, his first and only season in which he played in every regular season game. Parker finishes his NFL career with 369 catches for 5,266 yards and 27 touchdowns.

“The camaraderie,” said Parker, when asked what he’ll remember most about his NFL career. “The brotherhood in the locker room on whichever team it was. Everyone always welcome 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.”