Veteran NFL wide receiver Tavon Austin has announced his retirement from the NFL at age 34. 

Austin is best known for his time with the Rams, where he was a first-round draft pick in 2013 and stayed with the team during its move from St. Louis to Los Angeles.

Austin last played in the NFL in 2021 with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Austin posted about his decision to retire on social media with an emotional statement.

‘No matter how hard you work or how badly you want something, sometimes God has other plans. I wasn’t sure if I was ready to give up football, and it has been one of the most challenging decisions I’ve ever made. But after an incredible ten years, I’m officially retiring from the NFL,’ Austin said.

Tavon Austin has retired from the NFL on Tuesday at 34 after nine seasons in the league

‘First and foremost, I’d like to thank God for turning my childhood dream into a reality. God has blessed me beyond measure! I want to thank my fans who cheered for me and stood by me through the ups and downs.

Without you, I wouldn’t have a career. I’d also like to thank all of the organizations, coaches, and staff that took a chance on me,’ Austin continued.

‘I’m beyond grateful for the opportunities, and I hope you all knew that I played from the heart and gave my ALL every day, regardless of the circumstances.

To my teammates, I made some everlasting memories with you guys, and it was an honor to share the field with you. To my family, I couldn’t have done it without your love and support; you witnessed my physical, mental, and emotional battles on and off the field,’ Austin added.

Football gave me more than a career. It gave me some lifelong friendships and molded so much of my character. It taught me how vital choices are and how decision-making affects you.

Football created in me a mindset of relentless pursuit and hard work ethic! Football didn’t always love me back, but it will always be my first love! I will forever cherish the time I spent in the NFL. It has indeed been a privilege.

Just like seasons, they come to an end, and it’s time for me to enter my next chapter in life,’ Austin concluded.

Austin is considered one of the best wide receivers in college football of the 21st century, lighting it up at West Virginia before coming to the NFL.

He amassed over 1,000 yards receiving during his junior and senior season as a Mountaineer.

Austin also played for the Cowboys and Packers during his NFL career, and spent time on the practice squads of the Bills and 49ers.

His last time attached to an NFL team was in 2022, when he was with Buffalo.