Ex-Detroit Lions Wide Receiver Retires After Seven Seasons
DJ Chark has announced his retirement from the NFL at age 29. He made the announcement on Instagram and said he plans to focus on community and charitable work.
Career highlights
Chark was a second-round pick out of LSU in 2018. He spent seven seasons in the league and played for multiple teams.
- Jacksonville Jaguars — drafted in 2018.
- Detroit Lions — one season on a one-year, $10 million deal.
- Carolina Panthers — short stint during his career.
- Los Angeles Chargers — last regular-season appearance in 2024.
Pro Bowl season
He earned a Pro Bowl selection after a career-best campaign. That year he had 73 catches for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns.
Recent seasons and injuries
In Detroit, Chark played 11 games. He recorded 30 receptions for 502 yards and three touchdowns that season.
His final regular-season game came in 2024 with the Chargers. He finished that season with four catches for 31 yards and one touchdown.
Injuries frequently interrupted his career. He missed at least six games in three of his final four seasons.
Short-term moves late in career
Chark signed with the Atlanta Falcons ahead of training camp last year. He did not make it past August with that franchise.
Retirement and future plans
On Instagram, Chark reflected on his lifelong connection to football. He said the sport shaped his life from age seven.
He expressed gratitude to teammates, family, and fans. He added that he is excited about the possibilities ahead.
| Detail | Fact |
|---|---|
| Draft | Second round, LSU, 2018 |
| Pro Bowl season | 73 receptions, 1,008 yards, 8 TDs |
| Lions contract | One-year, $10 million |
| Lions stats | 30 catches, 502 yards, 3 TDs in 11 games |
| 2024 stats | 4 receptions, 31 yards, 1 TD (Chargers) |
Filmogaz.com will monitor Chark’s next steps. The ex-Detroit Lions wide receiver indicated he will remain active in his community. He also said he will pursue charitable initiatives after seven seasons in the NFL.
