Ryan Fitzpatrick had a lengthy and productive career, plying his trade as a journeyman starting quarterback for an NFL-record nine different teams.
Now, the former Harvard standout is retiring from the game. Fitzpatrick, who played last year for the Washington franchise as their starter before a hip injury ended his season, informed former teammates in a group text that he’s retiring after 16 seasons.
Journeyman QB Ryan Fitzpatrick retiring
Former Buffalo Bills running back Fred Jackson shared the message from Fitzpatrick on social media. Fitzpatrick wrote: “Forever grateful for the magical ride.”
Fitzpatrick, 39, is the only NFL player to throw a touchdown pass and an interception for eight different teams.
Congrats on a Helluva career, Fitzy!! Loved sharing the field with you!! The gratitude is all mine!! #BillsMafia #fitzmagic pic.twitter.com/s7n4DsiLJ7
— Fred Jackson (@Fred22Jackson) June 2, 2022
The former St. Louis Rams seventh-round draft pick had his lengthiest career stint with the Buffalo Bills, playing there for four seasons. He had two winning seasons with the 2015 New York Jets and the 2020 Miami Dolphins.
Nicknamed “Fitzmagic,” Fitzpatrick was a streaky passer who holds the NFL career record for most passing yards and touchdown passes for a quarterback who never played in a playoff game.
Fitzpatrick scored a 49 on the Wonderlic logic and intelligence exam when he was entering the NFL, one shy of a perfect score.
Fitzpatrick played for the Bengals, Bills, Titans, Texans, Jets, Buccaneers, Dolphins, and Commanders throughout his career.
He finished with 34,990 passing yards, 223 touchdowns, 169 interceptions, and an all-time record of 59-87-1 in 147 starts and 166 games played.