As the NFL offseason progresses, teams are wrapping up free agency and shifting their focus to the NFL Draft.
Players who plan to wait until after the draft aren’t just hoping for an opportunity—they’re making pivotal decisions about their futures. One former Pro Bowl wide receiver has made a surprising choice.
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On Friday, reports indicated that former 1,000-yard receiver D.J. Chark has decided to retire. At just 29 years old, he is calling it a career.
Sep 12, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver D.J. Chark (17) is unable to make a reception as Houston Texans cornerback Terrance Mitchell (39) defends during the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Jacksonville Jaguars drafted Chark in 2018 in the second-round. He found early success despite instability at quarterback.
He earned Pro Bowl honors in 2019 after recording more than 1,000 receiving yards, 73 receptions, and eight touchdowns. Injuries disrupted the next two seasons, prompting him to move on.
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Chark later filled WR2 and WR3 roles in Detroit and Carolina, where he provided a reliable option in the passing game while playing on one-year deals.
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver D.J. Chark (17) pulls Ibn a pass during second quarter action. The Jacksonville Jaguars hosted the Tennessee Titans Sunday, December 13, 2020 at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida. The Jaguars trailed at the half 17 to 3. [Bob Self/Florida Times-Union] Fljax 121320 Bsjaguarsvsti
He last appeared in regular-season action in 2024, when limited playing time cut his season short. He attempted a comeback with the Atlanta Falcons in 2025 but suffered a preseason injury.
Chark brought clear talent to the field but struggled to stay healthy. The former LSU standout likely would have drawn interest after the NFL Draft.
Instead, he chose to retire at a relatively young age and will now move on to the next phase of his life.
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