10 NFL players who could retire following the 2020 season

8. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Once one of the most dominant defensive tackles in the NFL, Ndamukong Suh is now a veteran journeyman. Suh signed the third consecutive one-year deal of his career this offseason, agreeing to an $8 million reunion with the Buccaneers. The 33-year-old previously signed with Tampa Bay for $9.25 million in 2019 and Los Angeles for $14 million in 2018.

In 2019, Suh recorded 2.5 sacks, 14 quarterback hits, four fumble recoveries, 41 tackles, and two defensive touchdowns. He’s no longer a Pro Bowl-caliber player, but he’s still an impact starter. Suh left his stamp on the league last year, helping Vita Vea emerge as one of the NFL’s best nose tackles. Suh also played a role on Tampa Bay’s dominant defensive front.

The Buccaneers allowed a league-low 73.8 rushing yards per game in 2019. The New York Jets finished second, allowing 86.9 rushing yards per game. All of the defensive front’s vital players are returning for the 2020 season.

7. Rob Gronkowski, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Technically, Rob Gronkowski is in the final season of a six-year, $54 million deal he signed in 2012. The four-time First-Team All-Pro retired following New England’s victory in Super Bowl LIII, but he returned to football when Tom Brady signed with the Buccaneers. With one year remaining on his deal and plenty of hobbies away from football, Gronkowski could retire for a second time once the 2020 season ends.

There’s also a chance Tampa Bay brings Gronk back on a one-year deal to play with the team during the final year of Brady’s contract. However, injuries and fatigue could also push the 31-year-old tight end back into retirement. Remember, he’s dealt with multiple back surgeries and various other injuries which will affect him for the rest of his life.

During the first nine years of his career, Gronkowski won three Super Bowls and caught 521 passes for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns.