NFL Veteran Mohamed Sanu Announces Retirement After 11 Seasons

CINCINNATI, OH — Veteran wide receiver Mohamed Sanu officially announced his retirement from the NFL on social media after an 11-season career in professional football. The 36-year-old had been out of the league since 2021 and had not participated in training camps since 2022.

Sanu shared his thoughts on Instagram, stating, “Retirement from the NFL isn’t the end of my story — it’s the start of a new chapter. After more than a decade in the league, living out the dream I set in my heart on as a kid, it’s time to step away from the field and reflect on the journey.”

The New England Patriots acquired Sanu in October 2019, sending a second-round draft pick to the Atlanta Falcons for the wideout. During his time with the Patriots, he had 26 receptions for 207 yards but struggled to connect with quarterback Tom Brady. His season ended with the team losing in the Wild Card round, and he was released the following summer.

Sanu continued his retirement announcement with gratitude, saying, “To every coach who believed in me, every teammate who battled alongside me, every family member, friend, and loved one who stood in my corner — thank you. And to every doubter and hater who fueled my fire — thank you too.”

Throughout his career, Sanu had stints with various teams, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions, and Miami Dolphins. He finished with 435 receptions, 4,871 receiving yards, and 29 touchdowns. In addition to his receiving skills, he also was able to throw four touchdown passes on trick plays.

Looking ahead, Sanu expressed excitement about his future endeavors, saying, “Now it’s about pouring my knowledge into the next generation, guiding the youth through coaching, and continuing to share the game in a whole new way with the Facts Over Stats podcast — where I break down football, tell stories from my career, and give fans a perspective straight from the players who lived it.”

As he closes this chapter, Sanu concluded with a hopeful message: “This retirement isn’t goodbye — it’s hello to new vibes, new opportunities, and the chance to impact even more lives. The journey continues … and I’d love for you to be a part of it. Love, Agent 12.”