Jacksonville Jaguars left tackle Branden Albert, acquired in a trade this March, has surprisingly retired from football after nine seasons.
The team announced this move on its official website.
“After nine seasons playing in the National Football League, I have decided to retire from the game that has given me so much,” said Albert. “I would like to thank Mr. Khan and the Jaguars organization, Mr. Ross, Joe Philbin, Dennis Hickey and the Dolphins organization and Mr. Hunt, Carl Peterson, Herm Edwards and the Chiefs organization for providing me with the opportunity of a lifetime. GOD has blessed me with so much through football that I thought would never be attainable. It’s been truly a blessing. I cherish all of the relationships and people I have encountered while playing in the NFL! Special thanks to Al Groh and the University of Virginia for giving me the opportunity for a great education and showing faith in me when no one else wanted to take a chance on me. I am truly thankful for my UVA family.
“This is such a special league and it’s been an honor and a privilege to play this sport professionally for the past nine years. I wish Coach Marrone and my Jacksonville teammates the best of luck on their journey this season.”
Albert also mentioned he sees big things coming for the Jaguars organization. He’ll return to Miami to run his businesses and further his education.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Albert started 118 games during his career, which was spent with the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins. He had threatened to hold out for a new contract this offseason but ultimately reported to minicamp. He worked with the team during its first days of training camp and was expected to compete with rookie Cam Robinson for the starting left tackle job this summer.