As the 2025 NFL regular season approaches, there’s a bittersweet note echoing through training camps across the league. With teams gearing up for an exciting new chapter, two young players have made the surprising decision to retire before even stepping onto the field this season.
First up is Zach Evans, a promising running back who captured attention during his collegiate days at Ole Miss. Just 24 years old, Evans announced his retirement from professional football earlier this week. His journey in the NFL began when he was selected in the sixth round of the 2023 Draft, and he spent the majority of the 2024 season with the Los Angeles Rams before joining the New York Jets practice squad last year. While his time on the field may have been short, his decision to step away speaks volumes about the challenges athletes face, both physically and mentally.
Evans isn’t the only name making waves in this unexpected wave of retirements. Offensive lineman Nate Herbig, 27, is also hanging up his cleats. A versatile player who has donned the jerseys of teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Washington Commanders, Herbig started 30 games in his career after initially going undrafted. His experience and adaptability on the line contributed to various offensive schemes, underscoring the value he brought to each roster he joined.
Football, while celebrated for its thrilling moments and fierce competition, is a sport that places immense physical and mental strain on its players. For Evans and Herbig, the decision to move on at such a young age highlights not only the realities of the game but also the personal journeys that each athlete must navigate.
As the league readies for kickoff—and with marquee matchups on the horizon like the highly-anticipated game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys—it’s a moment of reflection for fans and players alike. While we gear up for what promises to be an electrifying season, these retirements serve as a reminder of the dedication, sacrifices, and tough choices that define life in the NFL. As we look forward to the action, we also acknowledge those who’ve made the tough call to step away and pursue new paths.
