Bills Offensive Lineman Tommy Doyle Announces Medically-Induced Retirement

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Tommy Doyle announced his medical retirement from the NFL on Friday due to recurrent injuries, including a significant leg injury that has caused nerve damage. At 26, Doyle’s decision marks the end of a four-year career during which he faced persistent health challenges.

“At this point, with the calendar and the healing process, it looks as though it’s permanent,” Doyle said, reflecting on his latest injury. “I’m just unable to play football at a high level, and it’s time. When you know, you know.” His latest injury occurred in August 2023 during a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, following a prior tear of his right ACL at the beginning of the 2022 season.

Doyle’s career, which began when he was drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, featured limited on-field action with just 12 total games, the most of which came during his rookie year. In 2021, he notably caught a one-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Josh Allen in a playoff game against the New England Patriots.

“I was really battling and competing and working to come back from that (ACL) injury, only to be kind of struck with an even more disastrous injury,” Doyle reflected. He emphasized that while he poured considerable effort into his rehabilitation, it has become clear that the athletic life he loved is no longer feasible.

Despite the hardships faced in his career, Doyle views his experiences positively. “Football is something that I’ve loved and put my life into,” he said. He acknowledged the difficulty of letting go but affirmed that his identity extends beyond football. “Ultimately, that’s really not the plan God has for me, and I know that to be true,” he added.

As he prepares to move on, Doyle shared what he will miss the most: the relationships he formed during his years with the Bills. “It’s an amazing town. It’s an amazing city. The fan base is awesome,” he stated. His involvement in the community will also remain a fond memory for him.

Looking ahead, Doyle expressed a desire to embrace a new chapter away from the field. “I’d probably like to come to a tailgate and drink some Labatt Blue Lights,” he said, hinting at plans to enjoy the Bills’ games as a fan in the future.