Having struggled with fitness issues throughout his professional career, seasoned wide receiver Mike Williams has decided to confirm his retirement from the NFL before the 2025-26 season. After spending eight seasons in the league, the Clemson Tigers alum has opted to hang up his playing boots at the age of 30.
Mike Williams announces his retirement from the NFL after eight seasons
On Wednesday night, Tory Dandy, Mike Williams’ agent, informed the Los Angeles Chargers general manager, Joe Ortiz, of his client’s decision to embrace retirement. The announcement comes just two days after the Chargers moved Williams to the ‘physically unable to perform’ list on the back of an undisclosed injury.
Responding to the unexpected news of his teammate’s retirement, Justin Herbert, who shared the field with Williams for four seasons, shared a heartfelt message, noting, “Mike has always done such a great job of just showing up and working. He’s been an excellent leader and teammate. That’s what we appreciate and love the most about him. It’s definitely tough to replace a guy like that. There’s not too many guys like Mike, and we’re definitely going to miss him.” (via WRAL Sports Fan)
Mike Williams initially signed a contract with the Chargers back in 2017. However, he ended up sustaining a back injury. This setback caused him to miss his first training camp and ultimately delayed his NFL debut. While Williams showed immense potential in his play, his career was always hampered by injuries, ultimately leading to his retirement. The 2016 CFP National Champion infamously suffered from a back fracture in 2022, before sustaining a season-ending ACL injury the following year.
After brief spells with the New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Williams made a highly anticipated return to Los Angeles. He signed a one-year contract worth $6 million with the Chargers in March 2025. However, with fitness problems once again hindering his playing abilities, Williams has now announced his retirement from the sport.
