Wide receiver DeVante Parker has retired after nine seasons in the NFL – and just two months after joining a new team.
The Philadelphia Eagles signed Parker to a one-year deal in March worth $1.2million, but Parker told ESPN on Monday that he has other priorities in mind right now.
‘I want to see my kids, spend quality time with them,’ Parker said. ‘I want to be there for them whenever I can.’
Parker, 31, spent the past two seasons with the New England Patriots after playing seven for the Miami Dolphins, who drafted him 14th overall in 2015.
Parker had 33 catches for 394 yards without a touchdown in 13 gmes last season.
Across 119 career games (88 starts) for Miami and New England, Parker hauled in 402 receptions for 5,660 yards and 27 touchdowns.
Parker was expected to be an option at WR3 for the Eagles behind stars A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
Philadelphia also signed Parris Campbell and added two wide receivers in the draft.
‘Everyone always welcomed me with open arms, and I appreciated them for that,’ he said.
‘I also appreciate the Dolphins for drafting me and giving me the opportunity. Always will have love for the Dolphins and their organization.
‘And I want to thank all the teams, the Patriots and the Eagles, too. But the Dolphins were the first team, and I really want to thank them.’
