Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Branden Albert announced his retirement on Monday following a strange offseason.
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Albert was traded by the Miami Dolphins in March, but held out in hopes of reaching a new deal. However, he will instead call it a career after releasing a statement through the Jaguars' official website on Monday.
"After nine seasons playing in the National Football League, I have decided to retire from the game that has given me so much. I would like to thank Mr. Khan and the Jaguars organization, Mr. Ross, Joe Philbin, Dennis Hickey and the Dolphinsorganization and Mr. Hunt, Carl Peterson, Herm Edwards and the Chiefs organization for providing me with the opportunity of a lifetime. GOD has blessed me with so much through football that I thought would never be attainable. It's been truly a blessing. I cherish all of the relationships and people I have encountered while playing in the NFL! Special thanks to Al Groh and the University of Virginia for giving me the opportunity for a great education and showing faith in me when no one else wanted to take a chance on me. I am truly thankful for my UVA family.
"This is such a special league and it's been an honor and a privilege to play this sport professionally for the past nine years. I wish Coach Marrone and my Jacksonville teammates the best of luck on their journey this season. During my short stint in Jacksonville, I quickly realized that they are working incredibly hard to turn the corner and I truly believe that they will find success in the coming years. I look forward to returning to Miami, the place that I now call 'home,' and running my businesses, while giving back to the community. While this chapter of my life is coming to an end, my story is still going and I hope you'll follow along. I will be furthering and finishing my education. GOD BLESS AND GODSPEED."
Albert, 32, appeared in two Pro Bowls in 2013 and 2015 and started 118 games during his nine NFL seasons with the Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs, who selected him in the first-round of the 2008 NFL Draft.
The Jaguars' website noted that Albert was working with the first string offense during training camp, which mades his decision even more surprising. His sudden retirement provides an opportunity for former Alabama standout Cam Robinson, who was selected by Jacksonville in the second-round of the 2017 NFL Draft, to start at left tackle.
