Eric Ebron Retires: A Look Back at His Career
Eric Ebron, former Lions first-round pick, announces retirement after a notable NFL career.
Eric Ebron Retires: A Look Back at His Career
Eric Ebron, a prominent player drafted by the Detroit Lions as the 10th overall pick in 2014, has officially announced his retirement. This news came through his Instagram post, where the 31-year-old expressed gratitude, stating, "A Career Is A Career!! I'm Proud Of Me! Thankful for everyone along this journey."
Early Career with the Lions
Ebron spent four seasons with the Lions, appearing in 56 games and accumulating an impressive 2,070 receiving yards along with 11 touchdowns on 186 catches. His selection in the draft was met with controversy; fans had concerns about the choice of a tight end at such a high position, especially considering that defensive standout Aaron Donald was selected shortly thereafter by the Rams.
Moving beyond Detroit, Ebron was released in March 2018, but his career continued when he signed with the Indianapolis Colts almost immediately thereafter. During his two seasons with the Colts, he further established himself, racking up 1,125 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns. His standout year came in 2018, where Ebron had a Pro Bowl-worthy performance, scoring 14 touchdowns which solidified his reputation as a top-tier tight end in the league.
Final Seasons and Legacy
Ebron concluded his career with two seasons at the Pittsburgh Steelers, during which he contributed to the team’s impressive 12-4 record in 2020, accumulating 558 yards and five touchdowns. Throughout his career, he established a reputation for being a reliable target, showcasing his skills developed during his college career at North Carolina, where he posted 973 receiving yards and three touchdowns in his junior season.
In reflection, Eric Ebron’s journey from a high-draft controversy to a distinguished NFL career showcases his growth and determination. While he faced challenges and skeptics early on, his achievements, including a Pro Bowl selection and impactful performances, will be fondly remembered by fans and analysts alike. As he embarks on this new chapter post-retirement, Ebron leaves behind a legacy of hard work, resilience, and athletic prowess.