The defensive end of the Detroit Lions, Romeo Okwara, has recently announced that he is stepping away from football and will not participate in the 2024 NFL season.
Romeo Okwara to “step away” from NFL. https://t.co/Cf4zeAkjPW
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 19, 2024
Okwara was undrafted in 2016 and signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent. He was with the Giants from 2016 to 2017 and then played with the Detroit Lions from 2018 to 2023.
Okwara shared his message on Instagram via The Athletic, “After some introspection and meditation I have decided to step away from the NFL. The game of football has been the largest part of my life for the greater (part) of 18 years, eight of which I have been fortunate enough to play at the professional level. Four of those with my brother.”
“The experiences, friendships, and camaraderie I have been lucky enough to share with my teammates, coaches, and peers is something I will forever be grateful for. You all mean the world to me and I will continue to cheer you on for the rest of our lives!”
He further continued, “My heart is forever with you and the city of Detroit. I am excited for what’s next as I navigate this crazy transition away from the game.”
With the Giants, he played in twenty-two games and spent six seasons with the Lions. In 2021, the defensive end suffered an injury, Achilles, for which he underwent two surgeries. Last season, he participated in sixteen games and registered two sacks, nine tackles, and five quarterback hits.
