Miami Dolphins Star Terron Armstead Retires at 33, Citing ‘I Literally Couldn’t Walk’ as Blunt Reason
Terron Armstead, one of the NFL’s most respected offensive linemen, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33. In a powerful and emotional revelation, the Miami Dolphins star offered a blunt, four-word explanation for his decision: “I literally couldn’t walk.”
Armstead made the announcement during an episode of the Nightcap podcast, where he opened up about the physical toll the game had taken on his body over a 12-year career. Despite being one of the league’s most reliable and consistent linemen, the wear and tear—especially on his knees—became too much to ignore.
“I’d finish a game, and I couldn’t walk for days,” Armstead said. “Pain was constant. I loved the game, but it didn’t love me back in the end.”
Originally drafted in 2013 by the New Orleans Saints, Armstead quickly rose to prominence for his athleticism and leadership. He spent eight seasons with the Saints, earning a Second-team All-Pro selection and three consecutive Pro Bowl nods. In 2021, he joined the Dolphins and continued to perform at an elite level, earning two additional Pro Bowl appearances.
Incredibly, Armstead played 15 games during the 2024 season, but behind the scenes, he was relying heavily on painkillers just to get through Sundays. He often skipped practices entirely to preserve what little strength he had for game day. “I wasn’t practicing. I was just showing up to play, and then I’d be done for the week,” he admitted.
Armstead’s early retirement comes at a financial cost as well—he is walking away from an estimated $15.5 million in remaining contract value. Over his career, he earned approximately $115.8 million, but he made it clear that no amount of money could justify risking his long-term mobility and health.
His retirement adds to a growing list of NFL players choosing to leave the sport early due to serious health concerns. It also highlights the brutal realities of professional football, where even the toughest and most dedicated athletes must eventually make painful decisions for the sake of their future.
The Dolphins now face the challenge of replacing a key veteran presence on their offensive line. Meanwhile, fans and former teammates have taken to social media to show support for Armstead, praising not only his career accomplishments but also his courage in stepping away on his own terms.
Armstead’s story is both sobering and inspiring—a reminder of the sacrifices made behind the scenes and the strength it takes to prioritize health over glory.