Marshawn Lynch Allegedly Retiring For 2nd Time In 3 Years From NFL

Marshawn Lynch Allegedly Retiring For 2nd Time In 3 Years From NFL

Beast mode out! NFL running back Marshawn Lynch is reportedly set to make his second retirement announcement following reports of Raiders head coach, Jon Gruden interests in a younger running back from the upcoming NFL draft. According to NFL insiders, Lynch, 33, isn’t interested in playing for any other team.

“After two seasons playing for his hometown Oakland Raiders, Marshawn Lynch is not planning to play football again.”

NFL insider Ian Rapoport confirms, adding coach Gruden still loves the 5-time NFL Pro Bowler, but is currently set on moving on with a younger RB.

“The Raiders love Marshawn Lynch, but Jon Gruden had moved on and made it clear. They plan to take a RB early. John Jacobs in the 20s is a possible target for Oakland.”

Last month, Raiders general manager Mike Mayock told reporters that Lynch would likely wait until after the 2019 NFL Draft, which airs Thursday, to decide on his future.  The Athletic reports,

Both parties seem content with a patient approach, as the Raiders prefer to maintain flexibility and Lynch probably wants to see how he feels once he’s finished rehabbing from October groin surgery. He’s likely deciding between another year with the Raiders or retirement, as there hasn’t been any suggestion the 32-year-old running back is interested in playing for a different team. Money may also be a factor, given his status as an unrestricted free agent.

After retiring the first time following the 2015 campaign, Lynch stayed away from football for the entirety of the 2016 season.

Lynch unretired to return to his hometown Oakland squad in 2017. In his first year with the Raiders, Lynch remained productive generating 891 yards on 207 carries scoring seven TDs. Last season, injuries once again caught up with the aging veteran. He played just six games, earning 376 yards (4.2 average) and three scoring touchdowns.

The NFL vet redefined his career and power running with the Seattle Seahawks for six seasons during their Super Bowl runs, winning the 2013 Super Bowl. Lynch became a household name, taking on the nickname “Beast Mode” after ran over any defender who dare attempt a tackle the 5ft 11′, 200 pound running back.

Check out some of Lynch’s career highlights below: