Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pro Bowl guard Ali Marpet retires at age 28

TAMPA, Fla. — In a shocking move, Buccaneers Pro Bowl left guard Ali Marpet is retiring, he announced on Instagram.

Marpet is just 28 years old and finished off his first-ever Pro Bowl season. He is arguably considered one of, if not the top Buccaneers offensive linemen.

A source told ESPN that Marpet made the decision due to concerns for his overall health.

«After seven formidable years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, I've come to the decision to retire from the game that has given me so much,» he wrote in his Instagram post. «This organization and the people surrounding it have helped not only fulfill a dream, but also helped build me into the person I am today. I've made Tampa Bay my home and I look forward to serving this community in the coming years. To the coaches and teammates, family and friends, an Instagram post simply can't express the profound impact you've had on me. I'm eternally grateful. Thank you Tampa Bay.»

A post shared by Ali Marpet (@alimarpet)

A second-round draft pick out of Hobart College in 2015, Marpet became the highest-drafted player (61st overall) in Division III history. He also became the first Division III player selected in the top 100 of the draft since 1990.

The Bucs already face the daunting challenge of replacing future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady. Filling the void left by Marpet, who missed just 12 games in seven seasons will be another big challenge.

Marpet was due to make $10 million in 2022.