10 NFL players who could retire following the 2020 season

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Adrian Peterson, Washington Redskins (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

10. Adrian Peterson, RB, Washington Redskins

After forgettable seasons in 2016 and 2017, Adrian Peterson found a stable home with the Redskins in 2018. After initially signing a one-year contract worth $1.015 million, he agreed to a two-year, $5.03 million deal last offseason. That makes 2020 the final year of Peterson’s current deal, and probably his final season in Washington.

This selection might come as a surprise seeing as Peterson recently told NFL.com’s Kevin Patra that he wants to play for four more years. By that time, he’d be near 40 years old. However, playing until 40, or even for several more years, might not be a realistic scenario for a ground and pound back who has racked up as many miles as Peterson.

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Peterson may stick around for a while longer. He’s the physical freak of his generation of football players. The man can fight through anything, and he’s still a productive player at 35 years old. We’ve also seen Frank Gore recently receive a contract for his age-37 season. I suppose anything is possible.

9. Jason Kelce, C, Philadelphia Eagles

Two years remain on Jason Kelce’s restructured contract, but he might not play the final season. Kelce considered retirement last offseason, but he decided to return for another year. The consecutive three-time First-Team All-Pro isn’t going anywhere this year either, but that doesn’t mean he won’t walk away next offseason.

Amidst retirement rumors, Kelce told The Athletic’s Zach Berman that he’ll let people know when he’s walking away.

"When I decide to retire, you guys will know. It will be a loud and emphatic statement. …It would happen…before free agency, before the draft. It wouldn’t be sprung on out of nowhere."

Despite the efforts of several other key pieces, Kelce is arguably the best player on Philadelphia’s offense. He’ll turn 33 during the 2020 season.

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