QB McCoy Retires from the NFL

Long-time journeyman quarterback Colt McCoy announced his retirement from the NFL on Monday to embark on the next phase of his football life.

According to Fox Sports’ Peter Schrager, McCoy has a “high profile broadcasting job” in place after spending 14 seasons living out his dream in the NFL.

McCoy was drafted with a third-round pick in the 2010 draft following an unbelievable four-year collegiate career with the Texas Longhorns. His No. 12 college jersey was retired by his alma matta. the Longhorns back in October 2010.

The 37-year-old’s final regular-season NFL appearance occurred in 2022 with the Arizona Cardinals.

“Thank you football,” McCoy posted to social media along with a video recapping his career. “Excited for the next chapter.”

NBC Sports announced that McCoy will join the network as a Big Ten analyst throughout the 2024 season and is scheduled to make his debut during a battle between the Colorado Buffaloes and Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday, September 7.

“College football has always held a special place in my heart. With the expansion of the Big Ten and new era of college football, it is the perfect time to join NBC Sports,” McCoy said. “I can’t wait to share in the passion, excitement, and competitive spirit every week.”

The signal-caller appeared in two preseason games with Arizona in 2023, competing to be Kyler Murray’s backup, although he was ultimately cut prior to the kickoff of the regular season after enduring significant elbow issues throughout the summer. He spent time with the Cardinals, New York Giants, Washington Commanders, San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns throughout his career.

McCoy wrapped up his NFL journey with 7,975 passing yards and 34 touchdowns compared to 32 interceptions in 56 games.

“I haven’t really talked much about my situation – I never like to give excuses,” he said on June 14 (h/t SI.com’s Donnie Druin). “I’ve been fortunate to play 14 years, I tore my elbow pretty bad and I’m not sure I’m gonna get over that, to be honest.”

McCoy was an elite college quarterback, finishing among the top three of Heisman Trophy voting on two separate occasions throughout his four seasons in Texas, including a No. 2 result in 2008. He completed an efficient 70.3 percent of his throws for 13,253 yards and 112 touchdowns with the Longhorns.

While his playing career is over, McCoy’s broadcasting career will be getting off to a blazing fast start, so he has to be ready just like on game day when he was under center.