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The Detroit Lions are saying goodbye to one of their veteran defensive linemen.
Pat O’Connor announced Friday that he is retiring from the NFL after a nine-year professional career, sharing an emotional message on social media thanking everyone who helped shape his journey.
“What a ride it’s been,” O’Connor wrote. “After 9 incredible years, I think it’s finally time to hang up the cleats.”
The former Eastern Michigan standout was originally selected by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft but did not appear in a regular-season game during his rookie year.
After spending six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including being part of the franchise’s Super Bowl LV championship team, O’Connor returned to Detroit in 2024 and spent the final two seasons of his career with the Lions.
“If you had told my younger self that I’d play this long, spend my entire career with just two teams, get drafted, and win a Super Bowl, he would have called you crazy,” O’Connor wrote. “But here we are.”
O’Connor made sure to thank the many teammates, coaches and friends who impacted his career.
“I want to thank all of my teammates and friends I met along the way. There are far too many to name, so I won’t, but you know who you are. Thank you for the memories, the friendships, and everything in between.”
He also expressed gratitude to the coaches who helped him develop both on and off the field.
“Thank you to all of the coaches who impacted my career and helped me become a better player and an even better person, both on and off the field.”
Over eight NFL seasons in which he appeared in regular-season games, O’Connor played in 88 contests, recording:
During his two seasons with Detroit, O’Connor appeared in 20 games, totaling 28 tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, and 18 assisted tackles while providing valuable depth along the Lions’ defensive line.
As he closes the book on his playing career, O’Connor says he’s excited for what’s next.
“As one chapter closes, another begins. Now it’s time to enter the real world. I’m beyond excited and ready for whatever comes next.”
He concluded his message with a simple thank you.
“Thank you, football, for everything.”
After nearly a decade in the NFL, O’Connor walks away as a Super Bowl champion, a respected teammate, and a player who made the most of every opportunity throughout his career.
Continue reading...
Pat O’Connor announced Friday that he is retiring from the NFL after a nine-year professional career, sharing an emotional message on social media thanking everyone who helped shape his journey.
“What a ride it’s been,” O’Connor wrote. “After 9 incredible years, I think it’s finally time to hang up the cleats.”
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O’Connor Reflects on NFL Journey
The former Eastern Michigan standout was originally selected by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft but did not appear in a regular-season game during his rookie year.
After spending six seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including being part of the franchise’s Super Bowl LV championship team, O’Connor returned to Detroit in 2024 and spent the final two seasons of his career with the Lions.
“If you had told my younger self that I’d play this long, spend my entire career with just two teams, get drafted, and win a Super Bowl, he would have called you crazy,” O’Connor wrote. “But here we are.”
Thankful for Teammates and Coaches
O’Connor made sure to thank the many teammates, coaches and friends who impacted his career.
“I want to thank all of my teammates and friends I met along the way. There are far too many to name, so I won’t, but you know who you are. Thank you for the memories, the friendships, and everything in between.”
He also expressed gratitude to the coaches who helped him develop both on and off the field.
“Thank you to all of the coaches who impacted my career and helped me become a better player and an even better person, both on and off the field.”
Career by the Numbers
Over eight NFL seasons in which he appeared in regular-season games, O’Connor played in 88 contests, recording:
- 52 total tackles
- 2.5 sacks
- 7 tackles for loss
- 6 quarterback hits
- 1 pass defended
- 1 safety
During his two seasons with Detroit, O’Connor appeared in 20 games, totaling 28 tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, and 18 assisted tackles while providing valuable depth along the Lions’ defensive line.
A New Chapter Begins
As he closes the book on his playing career, O’Connor says he’s excited for what’s next.
“As one chapter closes, another begins. Now it’s time to enter the real world. I’m beyond excited and ready for whatever comes next.”
He concluded his message with a simple thank you.
“Thank you, football, for everything.”
After nearly a decade in the NFL, O’Connor walks away as a Super Bowl champion, a respected teammate, and a player who made the most of every opportunity throughout his career.
You must be registered for see images attach
Continue reading...
