While some players leave the NFL with a press conference or highlight reel tribute, Richie James chose a quieter route—just a few heartfelt posts on social media late on a Friday night.
And just like that, the 29-year-old wide receiver who once shared a Super Bowl stage with Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes officially called it a career.
The Injury That Ended It All
But his recent announcement confirmed what many suspected: he’s not coming back.
Posting on X, James shared the reality he’s been living with for years.
“It took time but I have come to realize I am retired from the NFL,” he wrote. “Unfortunately, my knee never healed properly.
I was playing hurt since ’22. Oh well. I gave everything I got to the game of Football.”
From Underdog to Super Bowl Champion
James had a classic underdog journey. He was a seventh-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, coming out of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).
Drafted by the 49ers, he went on to play 40 games for them over three seasons, racking up nearly 700 receiving yards and three touchdowns before being waived in 2021 due to knee surgery.
A Career Resurgence with the Giants
In 2022, he signed with the New York Giants, where he had arguably his best professional season—57 catches for 569 yards.
He helped take the Giants to the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
Unfortunately, that postseason trip was a one-time event, as the Giants haven’t made it back since.
One Last Dance with the Chiefs
In 2023, Andy Reid and the Chiefs brought James onboard.
While his role in the Super Bowl win was minimal—he played just six snaps—it was a full-circle moment.
The Chiefs beat the 49ers 25-22 in overtime at Allegiant Stadium, and James walked away from the sport with a championship ring and a sense of closure.
The Hints Were There
In the days leading up to his official announcement, James had already been dropping clues.
“A big shift is coming,” he posted on X, adding later, “In closing… that’s it. I accept it. Gave it all I got.”
It was clear the decision had been a long time coming—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
The Chiefs Move On Without Him
While James reflects on the end of his journey, the Chiefs are gearing up for a fresh season.
Their attempt at a three-peat fell short earlier this year when they were beaten 40-22 by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl.
Now, the 2025 campaign kicks off on September 5 in Brazil, where the Chiefs will face the Los Angeles Chargers.
In Week 2, it’s a Super Bowl rematch against the Eagles at Arrowhead, followed by a showdown with James’ former team, the Giants, at MetLife Stadium in Week 3.
A Career That Quietly Mattered
Richie James may not be a household name, but his journey—from overlooked draft pick to Super Bowl champion—serves as a reminder that not every football story has to be loud to be meaningful.
He didn’t go out with a bang, but with dignity, honesty, and a quiet kind of gratitude that speaks volumes.