Dan Skipper Retires After Nine Seasons with the Lions in NFL
Dan Skipper, a veteran offensive tackle, has officially retired from the NFL after an impressive nine-season career. The 31-year-old made the announcement through an emotional Instagram post, revealing his plans to transition to coaching.
Skipper’s NFL Journey
Skipper’s professional football career began in 2017 when he signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent. Over the years, he played for multiple teams, including the:
- Dallas Cowboys
- Denver Broncos
- New England Patriots
- Houston Texans
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Indianapolis Colts
- Detroit Lions (four separate stints)
During his time with the Lions, Skipper appeared in 66 games and made 16 starts. Notably, he became one of three offensive linemen in the franchise’s history to score a touchdown.
Reflecting on Retirement
Skipper shared his gratitude, stating, “The memories and experiences that the NFL has brought me and my family are hard to put into words.” He humorously added that it was time for him to “report” as retired.
The decision to retire had been on his mind throughout the regular season. Skipper dealt with a lower back injury, which he discussed with reporters. He mentioned plans to see doctors for further assessment before finalizing his future. His remarks reflected the physical toll the sport took on him over the years.
Coaching Aspirations
After retirement, Skipper looks forward to beginning his coaching journey. He will serve as a volunteer offensive line coach for the East Team in the upcoming East-West Shrine Bowl.
Career Highlights and Statistics
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 31 |
| Years in NFL | 9 years |
| Teams Played For | 7 (including 4 stints with Lions) |
| Games Played for Lions | 66 |
| Games Started for Lions | 16 |
| Touchdown Receptions | 1 |
As Dan Skipper begins this new chapter in coaching, his experience in the NFL will undoubtedly provide valuable insights to young players. Fans will surely remember his contributions to the game.
