James Develin is calling it a career. On Monday, Develin announced his retirement from the sport via Instagram. 
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“Due to unforeseen complications with the injury that ended my season last year, I have decided it is both in my and my family’s best interest to retire from the game of football,” Develin wrote. “I’ve always maintained a believe that, in the sport, the team is much more important than myself as an individual. That belief still rings true, as I have to prioritize my team at home before anything else.”
Develin’s season ended in September after he suffered a neck injury. After thinking it over, Develin decided to move on rather than jeopardize his health further.
Develin signed his first NFL deal with the Bengals, but he has played every pro down with the Patriots. Save for the 2015 season he lost to injury, Develin appeared in every regular season game for the Pats between 2013 and 2018. In 2017, he earned his first career Pro Bowl nomination. In 2018, he inked a two-year contract extension, taking him through the 2020 season.
The 31-year-old (32 in July) didn’t see lots of targets in the Patriots’ offense, but he always provided reliable blocking. In ’17, for example, he graded out as Pro Football Focus’ No. 2 ranked run blocker among all qualified fullbacks and fourth amongst FBs in his blocking. Many teams have gotten away from using a fullback, but Develin bucked the trend as a throwback and an underrated part of the Pats’ game plan.
Even though Develin won’t be with the Patriots this year, he’ll be cheering them on from afar.
“Thank you to New England and Pats nation for your continued support of my team,” Develin wrote. “I look forward to continuing to support them right along with you.”
See ya
But now who will vulture all of Sony Michel’s touchdowns?
You sure he’s not just going to join Brady in Tampa? In all seriousness, though, I hope he enjoys retirement and gets better health wise. He was a good FB!
Man that 2014-2018 dynasty falling apart quickly lol.
Dynasties of one kind or another have been falling apart for over 5000 years. KEEP CALM & CARRY ON!
We’ll miss you as will the Pats. Thanks for all the hard work you put in.
Great player
Hardnose football player, not many like him in the league, he will be missed, Good Luck!
This is actually kind of a big deal. Develin was a monster part of the running game, paving the way for the backs, We felt it last season when he went down, had to patch that with linebackers and whatnot lol.
He may not have the stats (for those who just look at such), but his impact was far greater.
Could be a long season…. -_-
Good luck James!
such a great player, giant part of the run game for new england he will be missed! hopefully he fully recovers from his neck injury, and enjoys retirement. sucks to see him go.