So, in the NFL, we’ve had our fair share of unexpected retirements as of late. Well, here’s another one to add to the list: Steven Nelson, a former Kansas City Chiefs cornerback, has called it quits on his NFL career.
For more details, check out this piece on Another Pro-Bowl player bids farewell to the game
After nine seasons in the NFL, Steven Nelson, a veteran CB, has decided to retire. Holds @KPRC2. Nelson spent his initial four seasons in Kansas City after being drafted in the third round, followed by stints in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and eventually Houston for his last two seasons. pic.twitter.com/NDahLodtyY
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 9, 2024
NFL insider Ari Meirov shared the news on his X pageThis article mentions that “Veteran DB Steven Nelson has decided to hang up his boots after a nine-year career,” as told by @KPRC2. Nelson, a former third-round pick, spent his initial four years playing for Kansas City, then moving on to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and finally Houston for the final two seasons.
Nelson opened up about his decision to retire in an interview with Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston. He expressed that after discussing with his family, he felt it was time to take a breather and focus on family and new business ventures as they’re expecting their first child soon. Nelson said, “I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished in football.”
Nelson was drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft and spent a significant part of his career there. From 2015 to 2018, he racked up 182 tackles, eight tackles-for-loss, and four interceptions.
In 2019, Nelson signed a three-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers and played the 2019 and 2020 seasons with them, recording 109 tackles, two tackles-for-loss, and three interceptions. He requested an early end to his contract after the 2020 season, which the Steelers granted.
For the 2021 season, Nelson joined the Eagles on a one-year contract, where he notched 50 tackles and an interception.
In 2022, Nelson moved to the Houston Texans for a season, accumulating four interceptions, 115 tackles, and one tackle-for-loss. Despite attracting interest from various teams in 2023, Nelson decided to call it quits.
In a closing statement, Nelson mentioned his commitment to staying fit and being ready for any future opportunities but emphasized his current priority of family time. He remarked, “I’ll keep myself in shape and be prepared for the right chance. I’m going to do what feels right for me.” Nelson concluded, “For now, it’s about stepping back and enjoying my family.”