Journeyman NFL running back Chris Ogbonnaya has decided to end his playing career, the veteran announced today. Ogbonnaya officially confirmed his retirement in a post on his Instagram account.
“From no football, to Strake Jesuit, to Texas, and then to the NFL, it has been a pleasantly surprising ride,” Ogbonnaya wrote. “It is with great thankfulness to God and appreciation of my family, coaches, and fans that I announce my retirement from football. It has been an absolute privilege to play this game that I love, and I look forward to my continued involvement in the future.”
Ogbonnaya, who turned 29 last month, was selected in the seventh round of the 2009 draft by the Rams, but only ended up carrying the ball 11 times for St. Louis before moving on. The former Texas Longhorn had stops with the Browns, Texans, Panthers, and Giants over the next several years, seeing his most extensive action in Cleveland in 2011 and 2013. For his career, Ogbonnaya finished with 710 rushing yards on 158 carries, with two touchdowns. He added another 714 yards and two TDs through the air on 96 receptions.
Most recently, Ogbonnaya was with the Giants, having signed a new contract with the club back in March. However, he was cut by New York in May, and wasn’t on an NFL roster when he made his decision to retire.