Patriots RB James White announces his retirement

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — After 8 years sporting the flying Elvis, James White is hanging up his cleats.

The veteran running back has been working his way back from a hip injury that sidelined him for most of the 2021 season, and decided today to announce his retirement.

“It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates, and the people of New England as a Patriot!” White wrote in a social media post. “This chapter has been one that I will cherish. I look forward to what is next,” he wrote.

White was drafted in the 4th round of the 2014 NFL Draft out of the University of Wisconsin. In his tenure with the Patriots, White was a 3 time Super Bowl champion and had many iconic moments, including a legendary performance against the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI.

“James White has always been one of the most reliable and dependable players on the field,” said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. “He’s a soft-spoken leader who has led by example and was the best at what he did, leading all NFL running backs in receptions and receiving touchdowns over the past seven years.”

White played in 95 regular season games for New England and 12 postseason contests. He set Super Bowl records with 14 receptions (110 yards) and 20 total points (two rushing touchdowns, one receiving and a 2-point play).

“James defines the term consummate professional,” said head coach Bill Belichick. “While soft spoken, he brought exceptional leadership and competitive toughness to the team. He was a multi-year team captain and one of the most respected, best team players I have ever coached.”

White was the longest tenured Patriot on the roster. In his goodbye address, he thanked his family, coaches, and the fans who supported him.

“Thank you to Mr. Kraft, Coach Belichick, and the entire Patriots organization for giving me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream,” White wrote. “To be able to play my entire career for one franchise, in front of the best fans in the NFL, has been a tremendous blessing and honor. Thank you to every coach, friend, family member who have watched and supported me throughout my career, it did not go unnoticed.”

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