omeo Okwara played a key role as a backup player for the Detroit Lions last season and appeared to be on his way to a new team in free agency, but the veteran defensive end chose to retire.
On March 19, the 28-year-old announced his retirement from the NFL on Instagram, stating he was grateful for the opportunity to play for eight seasons, four of which he spent in Detroit with his brother Julian.
“After some introspection and meditation I have decided to step away from the NFL,” Okwara said in a statement.
“The game of football has been the largest part of my life for the greater of 18 years, 8 of which I have been fortunate enough to play at the professional level,” he said in a statement. “Four of them are with my brother. I will always be grateful for the experiences, friendships, and camaraderie I’ve had with my teammates, coaches, and classmates. You guys mean the world to me, and I will continue to support you for the rest of our lives!”
Romeo Okwara sent a message to Detroit.
Okwara began his career with the New York Giants in 2016 and joined the Lions in 2018, spending six seasons in Detroit. He made a solid first impression in his rookie season, starting 14 games and recording 7.5 sacks.
Okwara went on to have a career-best season in 2020, recording 44 total tackles, 10 sacks, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. Though the veteran defensive end’s importance has diminished in recent seasons, he remains a vital depth piece for Detroit’s defensive line and special teams.
Okwara also developed a reputation as one of the league’s best foreign-born players. According to ESPN’s Eric Woodyard, Okwara’s 23.0 career sacks rank fourth among Nigerian-born players.
In his retirement statement, Okwara praised the Lions for taking a chance on him as a free agent six years ago.
“My heart is forever with you and the city of Detroit,” he stated in the letter.
Okwara’s announcement came as a surprise, since he was expected to spark some interest in free agency. Anthony Licciardi of SI.com reported that he could be a target for the Buffalo Bills, who were looking for defensive line depth after Leonard Floyd left in free agency.
Lions Make Moves At Defensive Line
Prior to Okwara’s retirement announcement, the Lions were busy addressing their defensive line in free agency. SI.com praised the team’s signing of D.J. Reader, a former Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle.
According to writer Gilbert Manzano, the Lions attempted to fortify their poor secondary, including trading for cornerback Carlton Davis III from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He also highlighted the team’s efforts to enhance its defensive line.
“But the gains weren’t limited to the back end of the defense. Defensive end D.J. Reader and edge rusher Marcus Davenport have joined a front that includes Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill,” Manzano wrote. “With an improved defense, the Lions might have a strong case for having one of the best rosters in the NFL.”
