After 14 seasons in the National Football League, quarterback Russell Wilson has announced his retirement from professional football. The 37-year-old athlete made the announcement on Wednesday, June 3, posting a highlight reel on Instagram that chronicled his journey from childhood to his final days on the field.
Wilson's wife, musician Ciara, 40, was among the first to respond to the announcement, expressing her pride and support in the comments section of his official post. 'The best in the world!' Ciara wrote, according to Celebrity News: Latest Celeb News & Pictures - Us Weekly. 'There's only one, 3!' The reference to the number three acknowledges Wilson's jersey number, which he wore throughout his professional career.
The singer continued her message of support, stating: 'Always so proud of you! It's a true blessing to go on this journey with you! My greatest inspiration! I love you so much!'
Wilson's professional football career spanned multiple franchises over his 14 seasons as a quarterback. He suited up for the Seattle Seahawks, the Denver Broncos, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the New York Giants. His most notable achievement came in 2014 when he won Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks.
In his retirement announcement, Wilson captioned the video simply: 'Thank You, Football. Love, #3.' The video featured highlights from both his professional career and his early days playing the sport as a child. Throughout the message, Wilson described football as his 'joy,' his 'peace,' and his 'safe place.'
The retiring quarterback expressed gratitude for what the sport had given him beyond athletic achievement. 'You've also given me the greatest gift of all: family,' Wilson said in the video, acknowledging the coaches, players, and fans who supported him throughout his career.
Wilson gave particular recognition to Seattle, noting that the city 'raised' him and gave him 'forever memories after we won the Super Bowl.' His time with the Seahawks represented a significant chapter in his professional life, establishing him as one of the franchise's most successful quarterbacks.
In his retirement message, Wilson also addressed his wife directly. 'I thank you C. I thank you Ciara for being my greatest blessing,' he said. 'My best friend. My partner through it all.' The couple married in 2016 and have built a life together that has included navigating the demands of professional sports alongside their family commitments.
Wilson's announcement drew responses from across the sports and entertainment worlds on Wednesday. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes commented on the post, writing: 'Congrats on a helluva career man!' Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland added: 'LOVE YOU BRO!! And SO Proud of you!' DK Metcalf, who played alongside Wilson on the Seahawks, replied: 'Congratulations family.'
While Wilson is stepping away from playing professional football, he revealed plans to remain connected to the sport. He announced that he will join CBS Sports as part of the broadcasting team for The NFL Today, working alongside host James Brown and analysts Nate Burleson and Bill Cowher for the network's weekly show.
'I'm so blessed to continue to do what I love most, being around the greatest game on earth,' Wilson stated in his announcement. 'Thank you football, thank you, thank you, thank you.'
The transition from player to broadcaster represents a new chapter for Wilson, allowing him to remain involved in the sport that has defined much of his adult life while pursuing opportunities that offer different demands on his time and physical well-being. His 14-season career leaves behind a legacy that includes a Super Bowl championship and recognition as one of the prominent quarterbacks of his generation.