Another Eagles legend has decided to retire, following center Jason Kelce’s recent announcement. Fletcher Cox, the longstanding defensive lineman for the Philadelphia Eagles, has officially declared the end of his NFL career after twelve seasons with the team.
Selected as the 12th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, Cox emerged as one of the league’s premier defensive linemen throughout the 2010s. His remarkable contributions earned him six consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2015 to 2020, and he received All-Pro honors in 2018. Cox played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ historic Super Bowl victory at the conclusion of the 2017 season.
Expressing his gratitude, Cox stated, “I gave everything I had to this team and to this city. I don’t know what’s next for me, but I do know that I’m forever grateful for my time here in Philadelphia and with the Eagles’ organization.”
Cox leaves an indelible mark on the franchise’s history, ranking fifth in career sacks (70), sixth in forced fumbles (16), 13th in fumble recoveries (14), 15th in solo tackles (341), and sharing the lead in fumble returns for touchdowns (three).
Known for his durability, Cox appeared in precisely 200 games for the Eagles, making 182 regular-season starts and an additional 12 starts in the postseason. He played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl LII and also started in the team’s loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII.
In his final season, Cox recorded five sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in 15 games. He contributed with a half-sack in the Eagles’ playoff loss to the Buccaneers, marking the end of his illustrious career.
While Cox heads into retirement, his fellow Eagles defensive stalwart, Brandon Graham, has opted for one more season, signing a one-year deal with the team in what he has described as his farewell season.
