Colts tight end Jack Doyle announces retirement
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Jack Doyle announced his retirement from the National Football League on social media Monday afternoon.
Doyle just finished his ninth NFL season. He was set to enter the final year of his contract in Indianapolis.
Doyle, an Indianapolis native and Cathedral High School alum, told Colts General Manager Chris Ballard he needed a few weeks to make a decision on his future during their end-of-season meeting in early January. This decision was announced to the public on Tuesday.
Doyle recorded over 10 yards per catch this past season. During the season, he was one of the most sure-handed receivers on the team.
Through this past season, Doyle was one of the most sure-handed receivers on the team, upping his catch percentage to 72.5 for his career which only trails Austin Hooper (CLE) among tight ends dating back to 2013.
Doyle (295) ranks third all-time on the Colts tight end receptions list behind John Mackey (320) and record-holder Dallas Clark (427).
In 2021 Doyle also became the fifth tight end in franchise history to record 2,500 career receiving yards.
Doyle released the following statement:
“Growing up in Indianapolis in the late 90’s/2000’s it was impossible to not be a diehard Colts fan. Getting the chance to play 9 seasons for the team I have always and will always cheer for has been a dream come true. It is something that is hard to describe. I now go back to being the fan I have always been and retiring from the great game of football. I have a deep love for the game of football. I took pride in playing the game the right way and always leaving everything I had on the field. I have a deep respect for the dedication and commitment it takes to be out there for your teammates. At this time, my body is telling me that is a sacrifice I can no longer make.
“There are too many people to thank on this journey that has truly shaped who I am. It would be impossible to name them all and I am sure I will miss many.
“Thank you to my incredible wife, Casie. Without your relentless support through the ups and downs of my career I would never have made it to this point. My sons, Ronan and Henry, for keeping me young and adding more joy to my life than they will ever know.
“Thank you to my parents and my entire family for your continuing support not only in my career, but in my life.
“Thank you to Mr. Irsay and the Irsay family for their belief in me and for allowing me to be a part of this amazing organization.
“Thank you to all my coaches, the general managers, and the entire front office staff for trusting, guiding and pushing me.
“Thank you to the strength coaches, trainers, doctors, equipment staff and all other members of the Colts organization for the countless hours and for helping me in so many ways.
“Thank you to my agent, Buddy Baker, who believed in me from the beginning and for your continued guidance.
“Thank you to my teammates. Out of everything, being called a teammate was what I took the most pride in. I have been blessed with some of the best teammates and they will forever be my friends. Being a teammate is what I will miss the most. I firmly believe that there is nothing better than being a teammate in the greatest team sport.
“Last but not least, thank you to the amazing fans. I know from my personal childhood experience and into my own career that Colts Nation is a special breed. Your support through the long NFL seasons does not go unnoticed. We could not do what we love without you. I took pride in representing you every Sunday.”
Colts tight end Jack Doyle