In a surprising turn just days after training camp kicked off, the Cleveland Browns have seen the retirement of veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks, marking the end of an impactful journey in the NFL.
Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 84th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Hicks quickly made his mark as an All-American standout from the University of Texas. His time in Philadelphia included a memorable highlight—being part of the Eagles’ Super Bowl championship team in 2017. After his successful run in the City of Brotherly Love, Hicks took his talents west, signing a substantial four-year, $36 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals in 2019. Over the next few seasons, he continued showcasing his skills during his stints with both the Cardinals and the Minnesota Vikings before rounding out his career with the Browns.
On Friday morning, Hicks made the heartfelt announcement that he was officially retiring from the league. In his statement, he reflected on the profound impact football has had on his life, saying, “After 23 years of playing football, I’m officially retiring from the NFL. Football has given me more than I could have ever imagined—purpose, discipline, brotherhood, and a platform to impact others. But most importantly, it showed me who I am outside the game.”
Hicks expressed immense gratitude for the lessons learned and the victories achieved throughout his career. He emphasized the pride he felt not only in his on-field accomplishments but in becoming the man he is today. His message resonated deeply as he thanked teammates, coaches, fans, and, most importantly, his family for their steadfast support throughout his journey. With an eye toward the future, Hicks concluded his letter with optimism, stating, “I walk away with peace knowing I gave football all I had, and that the best is yet to come.”
As he closes this chapter, Hicks leaves behind a commendable legacy, finishing his NFL career with impressive stats, including 952 tackles, 16.5 sacks, 13 interceptions, and 11 fumble recoveries. His peak performance years shone brightly during his time with the Eagles and Cardinals, where he established himself as a key playmaker on the field.
As Hicks embarks on this new phase of life, we want to extend our best wishes for his retirement, filled with new opportunities and experiences. His journey has left an indelible mark, not just on the teams he played for, but also on the hearts of fans who admired his dedication and resilience throughout his career.
