Defensive Lineman Vince Wilfork Announced His Retirement From The NFL On Monday, 8/7/17. Photo Credit: Keith Allison – Under Creative Commons License
One of the league’s most recognizable figures, Vince Wilfork, is hanging up his cleats for good. In an announcement posted on Twitter on Monday, the 13-year veteran has decided to call it a career. In true Vince Wilfork fashion, he skipped the traditional press conference and instead opted to shoot a Kingsford Charcoal ad inviting everyone to a tailgate at this year’s Patriot’s home opener.
Well y’all – it’s been a great run, but the time has come. @Kingsford #Sponsored pic.twitter.com/DXfDzholBi
— Vince Wilfork (@wilfork75) August 7, 2017
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As a member of the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans, Wilfork put together a productive career. As if being an All-Pro Defensive tackle and a five-time Pro-Bowler (four consecutive from 2009-2012) wasn’t enough, he is also the proud owner of two Super Bowl rings.
Selected in the first round out of Miami in 2004, Wilfork was an integral part of some of the best defensive lines in the modern era. Playing alongside greats like J.J. Watt, Richard Seymour, and Willie McGinest, the ex-Hurricane held his own.
The Legacy of Vince Wilfork
His final stat line may not read like it belongs in the Hall of Fame, but his impact on the game is undeniable. Finishing with 16 sacks, 370 tackles, 195 assists and 5 forced fumbles may not seem like much when compared to fellow Defensive Lineman and Hall of Famer, Warren Sapp (96.5/435/136/19), but his career is every bit as successful.
Vince Wilfork represents everything that is right with football. His work ethic and dedication to the game is a testament to his love for it. In a time when scandal, brain injury, and bad press seem to be the norm in the NFL, it is refreshing to see one of its stars go out in style, and under his own terms. No shirt, no tie, just some overalls and a grill.