Another member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Super Bowl LV championship team has officially called it a career.
Former defensive lineman Pat O’Connor announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday, bringing an end to an eight-year professional career. As time passes, more players from Tampa Bay’s historic Super Bowl roster are beginning to step away from the game.
O’Connor spent the majority of his NFL career in Tampa Bay and became a respected depth player during one of the franchise’s most successful eras.
O’Connor Shares Emotional Farewell
O’Connor also posted a heartfelt message on Instagram reflecting on his football journey.
“What a ride it’s been.
After 9 incredible years, I think it’s finally time to hang up the cleats.
If you had told my younger self that I’d play this long, spend my entire career with just two teams, get drafted, and win a Super Bowl, he would have called you crazy. But here we are.
I want to thank all of my teammates and friends I met along the way. There are far too many to name, so I won’t—but you know who you are. Thank you for the memories, the friendships, and everything in between.
Thank you to all of the coaches who impacted my career and helped me become a better player and an even better person, both on and off the field.
As one chapter closes, another begins. Now it’s time to enter the real world. I’m beyond excited and ready for whatever comes next.
Thank you, football, for everything.”
A Seventh-Round Pick Who Outlasted the Odds
The Buccaneers selected O’Connor in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Eastern Michigan.
He spent six seasons in Tampa Bay before finishing his career with the Detroit Lions.
O’Connor appeared in 88 games and made three starts during his NFL career. He finished with 52 total tackles and 2.5 sacks.
During his time with the Buccaneers, he recorded five tackles for loss and five quarterback hits. He also earned a Super Bowl ring as a member of Tampa Bay’s championship team.
Final Thoughts
O’Connor never became a household name, but he built a career many late-round picks never achieve. He carved out eight NFL seasons, helped the Buccaneers win a Super Bowl, and earned the respect of teammates and coaches along the way. His retirement marks another chapter closing for one of the greatest teams in franchise history.
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