Ndamukong Suh, a former standout defensive lineman known for earning three All-Pro selections and five Pro Bowl appearances, has announced his retirement from the NFL. Suh shared on social media that his late father encouraged him to move on from football and embrace a new chapter in life before he passed away on July 12, 2024.
Suh began his professional career with the Detroit Lions, playing five seasons from 2010 to 2014, during which he achieved most of his All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. He later played for the Miami Dolphins (2015-17), Los Angeles Rams (2018), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2019-21), and Philadelphia Eagles (2022), with his final NFL appearance occurring during the 2022 season. Notably, Suh was a member of the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team and won Super Bowl LV with the Buccaneers.
Before entering the NFL, Suh was an exceptional defensive tackle at Nebraska and was a finalist for the 2009 Heisman Trophy. He was the second overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft by Detroit. Despite spending only five seasons with the Lions, Suh ranks 16th in franchise history with 36 sacks. Over his entire career, the 6-foot-4, 307-pound defensive lineman amassed 71.5 sacks and 600 total tackles.
Fan Take: Suh’s retirement marks the end of an era for one of the most dominant defensive forces of his generation, especially for Lions fans who witnessed his rise. His impact on the game will be remembered not only for his individual accolades but also for embodying the relentless spirit of a true defensive powerhouse in the NFL.