Five-time Pro Bowl linebacker C.J. Mosley announced his retirement from the NFL on his 33rd birthday via an Instagram highlight reel. A free agent since the New York Jets released him on March 12, Mosley shared, “Today, it’s time to wake up from my childhood dream and share it with the next generation. I spent my career building my legacy. Now it’s time for a new chapter.”
Mosley, drafted 17th overall by the Baltimore Ravens in 2014 from Alabama, was a defensive leader for the Jets. Injuries, including toe and neck issues last season, limited him to four games, and he lost his starting role to Jamien Sherwood. His career highlights include nearly 1,100 tackles, 12 sacks, 12 interceptions, and three touchdowns. With the Jets, he signed a five-year, $85 million contract in 2019, and his 2022 season earned him a fifth Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors.
A standout at Alabama under Nick Saban, Mosley won two BCS national championships (2011, 2012) and the 2013 Butkus Award as college football’s top linebacker.
“What will your legacy look like?” Mosley asked, marking the start of his next chapter.
