Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Tommy Doyle has officially retired from the NFL at just 26 years old due to ongoing leg injuries that have made it impossible for him to continue playing. The former fifth-round pick out of Miami (Ohio) announced his medical retirement on Friday after appearing in only 12 games over four seasons.
Doyle first suffered an ACL tear during a Week 3 matchup against the Miami Dolphins in 2022. Unfortunately, his comeback was short-lived, as he endured another severe leg injury during the 2023 preseason against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The latest injury led to nerve damage that did not heal, leaving Doyle with no other option but to step away from the game.
“When you know, you know”
Reflecting on his decision, Doyle expressed the difficulty of accepting his fate.
At this point, with the calendar and the healing process, it looks as though it’s permanent,” Doyle said in a statement. “I’m just unable to play football at a high level, and it’s time. When you know, you know.
Despite the disappointment, Doyle remains grateful for his time in the NFL. He recalled the emotional journey of working his way back from his initial ACL injury, only to suffer another devastating setback.
I was really battling and competing and working to come back from that injury, only to be kind of struck with an even more disastrous injury,” Doyle said. “At the end of the day, there were a lot of negative emotions and anger… but after reflecting, I’ve learned a lot of valuable lessons from it.
A memorable touchdown and lasting bonos
Doyle’s brief NFL career included a memorable moment in the playoffs. As a rookie, he caught a one-yard touchdown pass from Josh Allen in Buffalo’s 47-17 wild-card win over the New England Patriots.
Although his playing days are over, Doyle cherishes the relationships he built with teammates, coaches, trainers, and fans. He now looks forward to the next chapter of his life, embracing his role as a Bills supporter.
Football is something that I’ve loved and put my life into,” Doyle said. “But ultimately, that’s really not the plan God has for me, and I know that to be true.
As he moves forward, Doyle is looking forward to experiencing games as a fan. “I’d probably like to come to a tailgate and drink some Labatt Blue Lights,” he joked.
The Bills, meanwhile, are coming off a season that ended in the AFC Championship Game with a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Read the full article here
