New Orleans Saints player Ryan Ramczyk has announced his retirement from the NFL.
The 30-year-old has been battling knee problems and hasn’t played since 2023.
He played his entire NFL career with the Saints after they took him with the 32nd pick in the first round of the 2017 draft out of Wisconsin.
Ramczyk missed the entire 2024 season after undergoing knee surgery last July.
He made his final appearance for the Saints in a 28-6 win over the Carolina Panthers on December 10, 2023.
Ramczyk posted an emotional statement on Thursday night, writing: ‘What an incredible journey it’s been.
New Orleans Saints player Ryan Ramczyk has announced his retirement from the NFL
Ramczyk, pictured with his wife Rochelle and their children, has been battling knee problems
‘My path to the NFL wasn’t a straight line, it wasn’t the story most people expect. There were moments when people doubted me, moments when I doubted myself. It’s funny how life works out. Sometimes the road less traveled leads to places you never expected, but it ends up being exactly where you were meant to be.
‘Today I reflect on all the twists and turns that got me to this point, from technical college to become a “welder” to All-Pro in the NFL. As I step into retirement, I’m filled with gratitude for everything this sport has given me.
‘I owe a giant thank you to the game of football, and to the countless coaches and teammates who have supported and challenged me along the way. I’m especially thankful to UW-Stevens Point for welcoming me with open arms, to UW-Madison for taking a chance on a Division III transfer, and to the New Orleans Saints for believing in me at the highest level.
‘To the amazing New Orleans Saints fans. Thank you for embracing me from day one. Your passion and energy are unmatched, you made New Orleans feel like home.
‘To my incredible wife, thank you for being my rock through every high and low. And to my parents, who instilled in me the meaning of hard work and dedication.
‘I’m excited for what the future holds, especially the opportunity to spend more time with my two boys and watch them grow. I’m looking forward to this next chapter in life and am forever grateful.’
