Three-time All-Pro offensive tackle Ryan Ramczyk officially announced his retirement from the NFL, closing the chapter on a remarkable career that defied convention and embodied perseverance.
In a heartfelt statement released alongside a press release from the New Orleans Saints, Ramczyk reflected on his winding road to football stardom. “My path to the NFL wasn’t a straight line,” he wrote. “From technical college to become a ‘welder’ to All-Pro in the NFL… sometimes the road less traveled leads to places you never expected.”
Ramczyk, 30, entered the league in 2017 as the 32nd overall pick by the Saints after transferring from Division III UW-Stevens Point to the University of Wisconsin. Over eight seasons in New Orleans, he became one of the NFL’s most consistent and dominant right tackles, earning All-Pro honors in 2018, 2019, and 2020.
In his statement, Ramczyk expressed deep gratitude to every stop along the way—thanking his coaches, teammates, and especially Saints fans:
“Thank you for embracing me from day one. Your passion and energy are unmatched; you made New Orleans feel like home.”
He also paid tribute to his family, especially his wife and parents, for their unwavering support:
“To my incredible wife, thank you for being my rock through every high and low. And to my parents, who instilled in me the meaning of hard work and dedication.”
Ramczyk cited his desire to spend more time with his two young sons as a major reason for his retirement and said he’s looking forward to what the next chapter holds.
The announcement marks the end of a stellar NFL journey and the beginning of a new phase in life for a player who beat the odds—and became one of the best at his position.
“As I step into retirement, I’m filled with gratitude for everything this sport has given me… I’m forever grateful.”
Comments