Grier was selected by the Panthers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Over the years, he also spent time with the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, and Los Angeles Chargers before rejoining Carolina.
His retirement message was simple: “Retired today,” posted on Instagram.
Christian McCaffrey Responds
During his time with the Panthers in 2019 and 2020, Grier connected with star running back Christian McCaffrey. McCaffrey commented on Grier’s retirement post, praising him: “Legend man. Loved playing with you. Also sickest way to retire haha ‘retired today.’”
McCaffrey later moved on to the San Francisco 49ers in 2022, where he has continued to be a highly productive NFL running back.
Other Reactions Across the NFL
Grier’s retirement drew responses from several fellow players, including A.J. Brown, Drake Maye, Trey Lance, Jake Ferguson, and others. Brown wrote, “Congrats fam. Glad our paths crossed!” Maye noted, “704 made,” highlighting their shared North Carolina roots. Ferguson reflected on Grier’s early NFL connections, saying, “First NFL pass came from the Thrill golden arm. Changed my life.” Lance added a simple, “Congrats!”
What’s Next for Grier?
At 31, Grier faces a significant question about his future. Reports indicate that he briefly explored a coaching role with the Dallas Cowboys after spending the previous season on their practice squad. According to reports, the Cowboys offered a coaching position on Brian Schottenheimer’s staff, and Grier was considering it before ultimately signing with the Panthers this offseason.
If he pursues coaching, this could mark the start of a new chapter in football for Grier. Otherwise, he may explore other opportunities within the sport or beyond.
Key Takeaways
– Will Grier has retired from professional football at age 31.
– He previously played for multiple NFL teams and spent two seasons with the Panthers early in his career.
– McCaffrey publicly praised Grier’s retirement, reflecting on their time together.
– There were discussions about a potential coaching position with the Dallas Cowboys before he rejoined the Panthers.
– Grier’s next steps are not yet known, but coaching remains a plausible path if he chooses to stay in football.
