Detroit Lions running back Romeo Okwara is retiring after eight seasons

DETROIT – Romeo Okwara delivered some breaking news of his own Tuesday night.

The veteran Detroit Lions defensive end used his Instagram account to announce his retirement from the NFL after eight seasons.

“After some contemplation and contemplation, I have decided to step away from the NFL.” Okwara wrote on the social media platform.

He added: “Football has been the largest part of my life for 18 years, 8 of which I was lucky to play at the professional level.” “4 of them with my brother. The experiences, friendships and camaraderie I've been fortunate enough to share with my teammates, coaches and teammates is something I will forever be grateful for. You all mean the world to me and I will continue to cheer for you for the rest of our lives!”

Okwara, 28, appeared in 16 games for the Lions last season, recording nine tackles, five QB hits and a pair of sacks as a reliable part of the rotation. He was scheduled to become a free agent.

In 2016, he entered the league as an undrafted rookie free agent after being signed by the New York Giants, where he spent his first two seasons before being claimed off waivers by the Lions in 2018.

He led the Lions in sacks in 2018, with 7.5, the most in a player's first season in team history after being claimed off waivers. He started 32 games of his 92-game career, finishing with 158 total tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 25 sacks, and 58 quarterback hits.

His 23.0 career sacks also rank fourth among Nigerian-born NFL players.

He added, “My heart is forever with you and the city of Detroit.”