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Former Pro Bowl wide receiver DJ Chark announced his retirement from the NFL after seven seasons in the league. Chark, 29, last played for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024 before being released by the Atlanta Falcons last August. In his Instagram post announcing his retirement, Chark reflected on his journey in football and expressed gratitude for his teammates, fans, and the organizations he played for.
Why it matters
Chark’s retirement at the relatively young age of 29 highlights the short careers that many NFL players have, especially at skill positions like wide receiver. His Pro Bowl season in 2019 with the Jaguars showed his potential, but injuries and roster moves ultimately led to his decision to step away from the game.
The details
Chark was a second-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018 and had his best season in 2019, making the Pro Bowl after recording career highs in receptions (73), receiving yards (1,008), and touchdown catches (8). After four seasons with the Jaguars, he spent one season each with the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Chargers before being released by the Falcons last August. Chark retires with 216 receptions for 3,100 yards and 24 touchdowns in 76 games (51 starts).
Chark was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018.Chark had his Pro Bowl season with the Jaguars in 2019.Chark spent one season each with the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Chargers from 2020-2024.Chark was released by the Atlanta Falcons in August 2025.Chark announced his retirement on March 21, 2026.
The players
DJ Chark
A former Pro Bowl wide receiver who played 7 seasons in the NFL, most notably with the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2018-2021.
Atlanta Falcons
The NFL team that released Chark in August 2025 after he spent one season with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024.
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What they’re saying
“After much contemplation, I have decided to share a proper farewell as I navigate retirement. My journey began at the age of 7 when I signed up for football, unaware of the profound impact it would have on my life. I simply loved the sport and had the unwavering support of my parents. Years later I received the support of my wife, kids, family and thousands of fans!”
— DJ Chark
The takeaway
Chark’s retirement at age 29 is a reminder of the short careers many NFL players, especially at skill positions, can have due to factors like injuries and roster moves. His Pro Bowl season in 2019 showed his potential, but he was unable to sustain that level of play throughout his 7-year career.