Ex-Eagles Linebacker Makes Major Retirement Announcement
After six seasons in the NFL, former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jordan Hicks has announced his retirement from professional football. The decision comes after a successful career that saw Hicks establish himself as one of the league’s top linebackers and a key contributor to the Eagles’ defense.
Hicks, a third-round draft pick out of the University of Texas in 2015, quickly made an impact in the NFL. In his rookie season, he played in all 16 games and recorded 50 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions. His play earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team and set the stage for a promising career ahead.
Over the next five seasons, Hicks continued to excel on the field, becoming a leader on the Eagles’ defense and a fan favorite in Philadelphia. His ability to read offenses, make plays in coverage, and deliver bone-crushing hits made him a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Injuries were a constant challenge for Hicks throughout his career. He missed significant time in both the 2017 and 2018 seasons due to injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon that cut his 2017 campaign short. However, Hicks always bounced back stronger than before, proving his resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
Despite the challenges, Hicks remained a key player for the Eagles and played a crucial role in their Super Bowl LII victory in 2018. His interception of Tom Brady in the end zone during the game was a defining moment in the Eagles’ historic win and solidified his place in Philadelphia sports history.
Off the field, Hicks was known for his leadership and work ethic. He served as a mentor to younger players and was a vocal presence in the locker room. His commitment to his craft and dedication to his team were evident in everything he did, both on and off the field.
As he reflects on his career, Hicks expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in the NFL and the relationships he formed along the way. He thanked the Eagles organization, his coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout his career. Hicks also acknowledged the sacrifices he made to reach the highest levels of professional football and the lessons he learned along the way.
In announcing his retirement, Hicks cited a desire to prioritize his health and well-being as the main reason for stepping away from the game. The toll of playing in the NFL, both physically and mentally, had taken its toll on Hicks, and he felt it was time to listen to his body and make the difficult decision to walk away from the game he loved.
Looking ahead, Hicks plans to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests outside of football. He expressed a desire to stay involved in the game in some capacity, whether through coaching, mentoring, or broadcasting. Hicks also hopes to use his platform to give back to the community and inspire others to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams.
As fans and teammates alike bid farewell to Hicks, they will remember him as a fierce competitor, a dedicated teammate, and a true professional both on and off the field. His impact on the Eagles’ defense and the NFL as a whole will not be forgotten, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of watching him play.
In conclusion, Jordan Hicks’ retirement marks the end of an era for the Philadelphia Eagles and the NFL. His contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come, and his presence will be sorely missed on the field. Hicks leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and perseverance that will serve as an inspiration to future generations of athletes. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his years of excellence on the gridiron.
Source: Newsweek