Former Pro Bowl Defensive Tackle Malik Jackson Announces Retirement After 10 NFL Seasons
After a successful 10-year career in the NFL, former Pro Bowl defensive tackle Malik Jackson has announced his retirement. The 33-year-old made the announcement on NFL Network’s “Good Morning Football,” stating that he is ready to hang up his cleats and spend more time with his family.
Jackson began his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, where he spent the first four seasons of his career from 2012 to 2015. During his time with the Broncos, he played a crucial role in helping the team secure a victory in Super Bowl 50. His performance on the field earned him recognition and set the stage for a promising career.
In 2016, Jackson moved on to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he spent the next three seasons. It was during his time with the Jaguars that he earned Pro Bowl honors in 2017, thanks to his impressive eight sacks that season. Jackson’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses made him a formidable force on the field and solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top defensive tackles.
After his tenure with the Jaguars, Jackson had stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cleveland Browns. Although injuries limited his playing time in recent years, he continued to make an impact whenever he stepped onto the field. However, after not playing in the NFL in 2022, Jackson realized that it was time to prioritize his family and personal life.
Reflecting on his decision to retire, Jackson expressed satisfaction with his career accomplishments. “That was the goal. Ten to 12 years was my goal,” he said. “I was able to get to a point where I was doing OK. I was doing pretty well for myself. I did enough. I have a daughter, and I need to go home and be with her and start living life.”
Throughout his career, Jackson amassed an impressive stat line, recording 292 tackles and 35.5 sacks in 142 career games, with 89 starts. His ability to disrupt the opposing team’s offense and make crucial plays on the field made him a valuable asset to every team he played for.
As Jackson transitions into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, determination, and success. His impact on the field will not be forgotten, and his contributions to the teams he played for will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.
Looking ahead, Jackson plans to focus on spending quality time with his daughter and enjoying the next chapter of his life. Retirement offers him the opportunity to pursue new interests and explore different avenues outside of football. While his playing days may be over, Jackson’s passion for the game and his love for the sport will always remain.
In conclusion, Malik Jackson’s retirement marks the end of an era in the NFL. His 10-year career was filled with memorable moments, impressive performances, and a lasting impact on the teams he played for. As he embarks on this new chapter in his life, Jackson’s contributions to the sport will forever be cherished. The NFL will miss his presence on the field, but his decision to prioritize family and personal happiness is commendable. We wish Malik Jackson all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his dedication to the game.