Romeo Okwara had a significant role as a backup player for the Detroit Lions last season and seemed likely to join a new team in free agency. Instead, the experienced defender chose to retire.
He used Instagram social media on March 19 to reveal his decision to leave the NFL. He expressed happiness about his eight-season career, including a four-season stint with his brother, Julian, in Detroit.
Okwara wrote a message stating, “After reflecting and meditating, I've opted to leave the NFL.” He added,“Football has been a major part of my life for 18 years, 8 of which were at a professional level,” he continued. “Four of those years were with my brother. I will forever be thankful for the experiences, friendships, and camaraderie I shared with my teammates, coaches, and peers. You all mean the world to me and I will continue to support you for the rest of our lives!”.
Romeo Okwara Sends Message to Detroit
After initially playing for the New York Giants in 2016, Okwara joined the Lions in 2018 and spent six seasons with them. He made a strong start by starting 14 games in his first season and securing 7.5 sacks.
Okwara had his best season in 2020, achieving 44 total tackles with 10 sacks, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. Despite a diminished role in recent seasons, he remained an important player for Detroit’s defensive line and special teams.
Okwara was also recognized as one of the top foreign-born players in the league. According to
ESPN’s Eric Woodyard , Okwara’s 23.0 career sacks rank as the fourth most for a Nigerian-born player. In his retirement message, Okwara expressed gratitude to the Lions for giving him an opportunity as a free agent six years ago.
“My heart will always be with you and the city of Detroit,” he stated.
Okwara’s retirement announcement came as a surprise as he was expected to attract interest in free agency.
According to SI.com’s Anthony Licciardi, he was considered a possible target for the Buffalo Bills, who needed defensive line depth after losing Leonard Floyd in free agency. Lions Make Moves at Defensive Line Before Okwara’s retirement announcement, the Lions had been active in improving their defensive line in free agency. They signed former Cincinnati Bengals
defensive tackle D.J. Reader
, a move that received praise from Writer Gilbert Manzano. He also mentioned the team’s efforts to enhance their defensive line, including acquiring cornerback Carlton Davis III from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers through a trade.“The improvements weren’t limited to the defense’s back end. Defensive tackle D.J. Reader and edge rusher Marcus Davenport joined a lineup that includes Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill,” Manzano stated. “With an upgraded defense, the Lions could make a strong case for having one of the best rosters in the NFL.” SI.com.
Former Detroit Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara, aged 28, has announced his retirement plans and thanked the team for giving him an opportunity.
“But the improvements weren’t just in the back end of the defense. Defensive tackle D.J. Reader and edge rusher Marcus Davenport joined a front featuring Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill,” Manzano wrote. “With an improved defense, the Lions might have a strong case for having one of the best rosters in the NFL.”
