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Michael Pierce Retires After Thriving NFL Career
Baltimore Ravens’ defensive tackle Michael Pierce announced his retirement from professional football on Wednesday, concluding a notable journey in the NFL that spanned nearly a decade.
At 32 years old, Pierce leaves behind a legacy shaped by his nine seasons in the league, including seven with the Ravens and one with the Minnesota Vikings. Notably, he opted out of the 2020 season due to concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’ve decided to call it a career,” Pierce shared on the “Sports Spectrum” podcast. “It’s been a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful nine years. I’ve had so many people help me along the way.”
Pierce took a moment to express gratitude to several individuals, emphasizing his faith, stating, “I’d like to thank a few people personally, obviously my lord and savior, Jesus Christ, first and foremost.”
Among those he acknowledged was former Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome, who brought him into the league as an undrafted free agent in 2016. Pierce dedicated the initial four seasons of his career to the Ravens before signing a significant three-year, $27 million contract with the Vikings prior to the 2020 season.
After opting out during the pandemic, Pierce played one additional season with the Vikings before being released, marking his return to the Ravens with a new three-year, $16.5 million deal.
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During his time in the NFL, Pierce recorded impressive statistics, totaling 218 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, six fumble recoveries, and even one interception that stood out as a notable highlight.
On January 4, 2025, while the Ravens were leading 35-10 against the Cleveland Browns in Week 18, Pierce made a remarkable play. Dropping into coverage, he intercepted Bailey Zappe, returning the ball six yards before kneeling down. The moment sparked excitement among his teammates, who rushed from the sidelines to celebrate his unexpected yet thrilling interception.
“I was shocked myself, bro, I’m not gonna lie to you,” Pierce remarked on social media about the interception that marked the final play of his regular-season career.
Pierce’s journey in the NFL highlights not just his physical prowess on the field but also his deep appreciation for his experiences and the people who supported him throughout his career.
As fans and teammates reflect on his contributions, they will undoubtedly remember the impact he made both on and off the field during his remarkable tenure in the league.
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