On the first anniversary of his father’s passing, Ndamukong Suh officially announced his retirement from the National Football League. In a heartfelt statement posted on social media, the 38-year-old defensive lineman credited his late father as the most influential figure in his life — his “idol, coach, and anchor.” Suh recalled his father’s final piece of advice: “It’s time to let football go,” which resonated deeply and ultimately guided his decision to step away from the sport.
Suh Built a Dominant NFL Legacy Through Skill Consistency and Championship-Level Performance
Suh entered the NFL in 2010 as the second overall pick by the Detroit Lions and quickly established himself as a dominant defensive force. His rookie season was remarkable, earning him All-Pro honors and AP Defensive Rookie of the Year with a career-high 10 sacks.
Over the next decade, Suh played for the Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Philadelphia Eagles. He was a three-time All-Pro and a member of the NFL’s All-2010s team, accumulating impressive career stats, including 600 tackles, 71.5 sacks, and three defensive touchdowns.
Ndamukong Suh (NFL)Among the highlights of Suh’s career was his Super Bowl victory with the 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his durability and consistency, Suh played in 199 NFL games, starting in 191 of them. Even in the final stretch of his career with the Eagles, Suh remained a valuable rotational player. His legacy includes not only his statistical accomplishments but also his impact as a fierce competitor on the defensive line.
From Gridiron to Growth Suh Begins a Purposeful New Chapter Beyond Football
Suh emphasized that his retirement was not a spontaneous decision but something he had been preparing for. “Football was my passion, but it was never my endgame,” he wrote, indicating a clear sense of purpose beyond the field. He expressed gratitude and peace in his decision, signaling a confident transition into the next chapter of his life. For Suh, retirement is not an end, but a continuation of his lifelong journey of growth and learning.
In his post-NFL life, Suh has already embraced new ventures, notably hosting the “No Free Lunch” podcast. Through this platform, he shares insights on life, financial literacy, and personal development, aiming to empower others with the knowledge he has acquired throughout his career. Suh’s post-football focus reflects his broader mission — to influence lives beyond sports, using his voice and experience to navigate and teach success off the field.
