Wide receiver DeVante Parker, who spent 9 years in the NFL, is retiring, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
A 31-year-old former first-round draft pick, Parker, is starting his 10th NFL season and caught 33 passes for 394 yards in 13 games for the Patriots last year.
After 9 seasons in the NFL, WR DeVante Parker from the Eagles announced his retirement on Monday night.
Parker played 7 seasons with the Miami Dolphins, spent 2 years with the New England Patriots, and signed with the Eagles in March, although he never appeared in a game for his team.
Parker anticipated his time with the Eagles, but he felt it was now more important to concentrate on his family, which includes his 4 children.
“I want to spend quality time with my children,” Parker expressed. “I aim to be present for them whenever possible.”
The aspect of community that most resonated with him during Schefter’s recount of his 9-season experience was.
“The sense of friendship and unity in the locker room, no matter which team I was on,” Parker said. “Everyone always greeted me warmly, and I was grateful for that.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Dolphins for launching his career in 2015, in addition to his thanks to his two subsequent teams.
“I am grateful to the Dolphins for drafting me and giving me this chance,” Parker remarked. “I will always hold affection for the Dolphins and their organization. Additionally, I want to extend my thanks to all the teams, including the Patriots and the Eagles. However, the Dolphins were my first team, and I truly want to express my gratitude to them.”
Parker, the 14th selection in the 2015 NFL draft from Louisville, was with the Dolphins until 2021, after which he joined the Patriots. His standout season occurred in Miami in 2019, where he recorded 1,202 receiving yards and scored 9 touchdowns.
Although Parker only surpassed 1,000 yards in the 2019 season, he consistently demonstrated his value as a receiver throughout most of his career. In his final season, he racked up 394 receiving yards on 33 catches, culminating his career with a total of 5,660 yards and 27 touchdowns.
Parker is stepping down with his finances secure and his health in good shape, so there are no downsides. However, Britain Covey and John Wilson appear to benefit the most. A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and P. Campbell are almost guaranteed spots on the roster, but Parker’s retirement gives Covey a clear path to make the team.
Covey, regarded as one of the NFL’s premier punt returners, didn’t secure a roster spot directly in 2023 and faced competition from Ainias Smith, Isaiah Rodgers, and Cooper DeJean in the return game. For the newcomer from FSU, Parker’s departure creates an opportunity, and the 6-foot-6 wide receiver could find a place on the team with additional training camp snaps.
Parker inked a year deal worth $1. million, positioning him as a potential 3rd-round wide receiver behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
Philadelphia added Parris Campbell to their roster and later selected Ainias Smith and Johnny Wilson in the closing rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft. This retirement will provide these younger athletes with additional practice opportunities during OTAs, training camps, and the mandatory minicamp.
Following Parker’s retirement, the Eagles still boast ten wide receivers. Among them are second-year players like Joseph Ngata and Austin Watkins Jr., alongside rookie Shaquan Davis and third-year Jacob Harris, who are also potential key players to watch.
Hunter Renfro, Michael Thomas, Russell Gage, Mecole Hardman, Julio Jones, and Richie James are among the players who might generate interest. Devon Allen is another potential player to keep an eye on after the Olympics.
