Former Patriots DB announces immediate retirement from NFL at 28

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Joejuan Williams announced his retirement from the NFL in an Instagram post May 15.

Williams, 28, played 42 games in four NFL seasons with the Patriots (2019-21), Chicago Bears (2023) and Minnesota Vikings (2023).

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Williams’ last shot in the league came in August 2024 with the New Orleans Saints, but he was released after one week without appearing in a regular-season game.

Nonetheless, he did not indicate his decision to retire until this week.

“At 5 years old I said ill be in the NFL,” he wrote on Instagram. “You accomplished your dream J. Now it’s time to help others accomplish theirs.

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“Thank You God for blessing me with this ability. And thank you football for changing my life forever. I came from nothing. This game transformed my life, gave me purpose, discipline, memories, relationships, and experiences I’ll carry forever.”

“Thank you to every Coach that worked with me, Every teammate I shared the field with, And the support from my family, friends and fans.”

“Now the same dream I once chased and accomplished… It’s time to impact the game by helping others accomplish theirs. Excited for this next chapter. Forever grateful for the journey.”