Terron Armstead just dropped a bombshell.
The Miami Dolphins’ powerhouse left tackle announced his retirement at 33. This comes with two years still left on his contract, according to the New York Post.
Over 12 seasons with the New Orleans Saints and the Dolphins, Armstead made his mark. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and raked in nearly $116 million. Walking away now means leaving $15.5 million on the table.
Injuries were a constant battle. Armstead never completed a full season. At his retirement party in Miami’s Wynwood district, he opened up about the toll.
“I’m the most injured guy in NFL history,” he admitted. “Pick a part. Operation game. But I fought through it. I’m a fighter.”
The decision wasn’t just about football. Armstead revealed that doctors recommended knee-replacement surgery early last season. Despite this, he played through a bone-on-bone knee condition.
“I don’t know how,” he said. “I impressed myself.”
Family played a pivotal role in his choice. “It’s time,” Armstead stated. “My family needs me. My kids need me,” as reported by the Palm Beach Post.
His retirement leaves the Dolphins with big shoes to fill. Protecting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who has a history of concussions, becomes even more critical. The team might look to 2024 second-round pick Patrick Paul to step up.
Former teammate Drew Brees praised Armstead’s leadership.
“He was going to be a leader in our locker room… and throughout the league,” Brees said.
Armstead’s journey from a third-round pick to an NFL standout is nothing short of inspiring. His resilience and dedication have left an indelible mark on the game.
