Veteran tight end Niles Paul decided not to look for a new job in the NFL after being released by San Francisco 49ers last week. Instead, Paul decided to retire from professional football at the age of 29.
Paul signed a one-year deal with 49ers in late July, but ended up being cut just a week later. He spent the 2018 season with Jacksonville Jaguars, playing six games and catching 10 passes for 98 yards.
“As they say, ‘All good things come to an end.'” – wrote Paul in a statement posted on Instagram. “After 8 years in the NFL, I decided that it’s time to hang up the cleats. Even though it didn’t work out, I was humbled and grateful for the opportunity to be brought into my ninth training camp with the San Francisco 49ers.”
Paul added that the reason why he is retiring is that he thinks that his body can’t take the pressure of playing in the NFL. He proceeded on to thank his former organizations and teammates. Read the full statement below.
Niles Paul entered the league in 2011 as a fifth-round pick by Washington Redskins. He started his career in the pros as a wide receiver but ended up making a switch to tight end and full back position following his rookie year.
Paul’s career stats include 78 catches for 954 yards and two touchdowns.
