With the NFL playoffs around the corner, a pass rusher with plenty of big-game experience is officially off the market.
Shaq Barrett has spent the past decade playing for the Denver Broncos, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins. He won a Super Bowl with the Broncos in 2015 before taking his talents to Tampa Bay. Not only did he capture a second Lombardi Trophy with the Buccaneers, he started playing at an All-Pro level.
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Back in July 2024, Barrett announced on social media that he was hanging up his cleats. A few months later though, he returned to the Buccaneers.
“It’s time for me to hang it up,” Barrett wrote on Instagram. “It’s been a great ride and I appreciate everything that came with it over the years. I’m ready to shift my full focus to my wife and kids and helping them realize there dreams and catch em. Anyone who caught their dreams before know the work, time and consistency required to reach them. I’m ready to start building them skills up in my kids which will take 100% commitment. Ik (I know) to some it’ll be a surprise but I’ve been thinking about this for a while and the decision has never been more clear then it is now.”
TAMPA, FL – OCTOBER 9: Shaquil Barrett #58 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers walks to the locker room prior to an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons at Raymond James Stadium on October 9, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Shaq’s finally done.
During an interview with Daily Mail on Tuesday, Barrett confirmed that he’s done playing in the NFL.
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“I’m 100 percent done for good now,” Barrett said. “I want to be there for everything that I can possibly be with my family. I’m just looking forward to being there for my family as much as possible.”
Barrett will finish his NFL career with 401 tackles, 125 QB hits, 59 sacks and a lifetime of memories.
Congratulations to Barrett on an incredible career.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 3, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.