New England Patriots veteran safety Patrick Chung won’t go through with his plan to return to the NFL in 2021. Instead, Chung chose to retire, announcing his decision on social media on Thursday.
Chung opted out of the 2020 season but told the media earlier this year that he has every intention to continue playing. However, the 33-year-old veteran surprisingly changed his mind in recent weeks and went down the retirement route.
Posting a statement on Instagram, Chung thanked the Pats’ organization, fans, and family, and added that “it’s time to start a new life”.
While Chung would be a great veteran option for New England, his decision to retire isn’t expected to hurt the team too much. The Patriots already stocked up on the safety position, bringing in Jalen Mills in the offseason. They also have starters Devin McCourty and Adrian Phillips on board, as well as 2020’s second-round pick Kyle Dugger.
Patrick Chung entered the league in 2009 as the Pats’ second-round selection and spent his entire career with the franchise aside from a one-year stint with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013. As a Patriot, Chung won three Super Bowls while being selected to the New England Patriots 2010s All-Decade Team.
Chung retires with 773 career tackles, 56 pass deflections, 11 interceptions, and 4.5 sacks.
