Deborah Walker
Aug 20, 2023 - 09:10

Myles Jack's Surprising Retirement After Seven NFL Seasons

NFL linebacker Jack announced his retirement from the Philadelphia Eagles after signing with the team during training camp.

In a surprising turn of events, the seven-year NFL linebacker, who is only 27 years old, has announced his retirement from the sport. This decision comes after he recently signed with the Philadelphia Eagles during training camp, according to reports from the NFL Network.

This linebacker, who goes by the name Jack, had previously spent six years with the Jacksonville Jaguars after being drafted in the second round in 2016. However, he made a move to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2022 season. Unfortunately, the Steelers released him in March, leaving Jack without any offers in free agency.

Feeling uncertain about his future in the NFL, Jack even considered pursuing a trade school education to become an electrician or plumber. He expressed his desire to work and not sit at home, despite having earned a significant amount of money throughout his career. Jack stated, "I want to be innovative. If a zombie apocalypse came, I want to be able to build something."

It was during this time of uncertainty that Eagles general manager Howie Roseman reached out to Jack, inviting him to work out with the team. Jack, who had very few belongings with him, including only two pairs of clothes and his Bible, eagerly accepted the opportunity.

Despite quickly integrating into the team and taking reps with the first-team defense, Jack ultimately decided that he did not want to continue his career with the reigning NFC champions. He played a total of 29 snaps on defense and three on special teams during the Eagles' preseason game against the Browns.

Jack's journey in the NFL has not been without its challenges. In September 2015, he suffered a torn meniscus, which significantly impacted his draft stock. Concerns about his surgically repaired knee caused teams to hesitate in selecting him. However, Jack proved his worth to the Jaguars, earning a lucrative four-year, $57 million extension in 2019.

Throughout his career, Jack played in 103 games, with 95 starts and 396 tackles to his name. His contract with the Eagles was a one-year deal that guaranteed him $1.775 million.

While this retirement may come as a surprise to many, it is clear that Jack has made a thoughtful decision about his future. He is ready to explore new opportunities outside of the NFL and pursue his interests beyond the football field.