DeVante Parker, a prominent former Miami Dolphins wide receiver and the team’s first-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, has announced his retirement from professional football. This decision comes unexpectedly, shortly after Parker joined the Philadelphia Eagles as a free agent.
The news broke late Monday evening, as reported by ESPN’s NFL insider, Adam Schefter. Schefter revealed that Parker’s decision was motivated by a desire to dedicate more time to his family, particularly his four children.
At 31 years old, Parker concludes his NFL journey with notable career statistics, including 369 receptions, 5,266 receiving yards, and 27 touchdowns. His professional tenure included a recent stint with the New England Patriots, where he played for two seasons following a trade from the Dolphins in the 2022 offseason. The trade involved Parker and a fifth-round draft pick being exchanged for a third-round selection.
Reflecting on his career, Parker expressed gratitude towards the Dolphins, the team that initially drafted him: “I appreciate the Dolphins for drafting me and giving me the opportunity. I will always have love for the Dolphins and their organization.
I want to thank all the teams, the Patriots and the Eagles, too. But the Dolphins were the first team, and I really want to thank them.”
Parker’s tenure with the Dolphins was notable, albeit marred by various minor injuries which limited his playtime, leading him to miss 20 games across seven seasons with the team. Despite these setbacks, Parker showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the 2019 season when he emerged as the AFC’s leading wide receiver in terms of receiving yards (1,202) and touchdowns (9), showcasing his elite skills and bolstering his case for Pro Bowl consideration.
Moreover, Parker’s legacy with the Dolphins includes recording the franchise’s sixth-highest career receiving yards (4,727) and ranking eighth in receptions (338). His contributions extended beyond statistics, including catching Tua Tagovailoa’s first NFL touchdown pass in a memorable victory against the Los Angeles Rams.
As Parker steps away from the gridiron, his impact on the Dolphins and his brief moments with the Patriots and the Eagles will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. His decision underscores the increasing awareness and prioritization of personal and family time over professional achievements in the NFL.