New Orleans Saints right tackle Ryan Ramczyk announced his retirement on Thursday after an eight-year NFL career. The three-time All-Pro was sidelined last season due to persistent knee issues. Ramczyk, 30, shared his decision in a detailed social media post, reflecting on his unique journey to professional football.

"What an incredible journey it’s been. My path to the NFL wasn’t a straight line, it wasn’t the story most people expect. There were moments when people doubted me, moments when I doubted myself," Ramczyk wrote. "It’s funny how life works out. Sometimes the road less traveled leads to places you never expected, but it ends up being exactly where you were meant to be."

Ramczyk reminisced about his unconventional path, "Today I reflect on all the twists and turns that got me to this point, from technical college to become a 'welder' to All-Pro in the NFL. As I step into retirement, I’m filled with gratitude for everything this sport has given me."

Drafted by the Saints in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Ramczyk consistently performed at an elite level. He earned three All-Pro selections and started in all 101 regular-season games he played. Ramczyk is only the second Saints tackle to achieve All-Pro status in three seasons.

Knee issues plagued Ramczyk in recent years. He missed a significant portion of the 2021 season due to a knee injury. Although he remained healthy in 2022, the knee problems resurfaced in 2023, causing him to miss the final four games. The same issue sidelined him for the entire 2024 season.

In his social media statement, Ramczyk expressed gratitude to various people: "To the amazing New Orleans Saints fans. Thank you for embracing me from day one. Your passion and energy are unmatched, you made New Orleans feel like home. To my incredible wife, thank you for being my rock through every high and low. And to my parents, who instilled in me the meaning of hard work and dedication."

Looking ahead, Ramczyk is optimistic. "I’m excited for what the future holds, especially the opportunity to spend more time with my two boys and watch them grow. I’m looking forward to this next chapter in life and am forever grateful. Who Dat for life."

The NFL announced that Ramczyk will reveal the Saints' second-day draft picks in Green Bay, Wisconsin, next week.