JACKSONVILLE – Branden Albert has retired from the NFL and the Jaguars.
Albert, a two-time Pro Bowl selection expected to compete for the team's starting left-tackle position, announced his retirement on Monday. The team announced the decision in a press release.
Albert, 32, was acquired by the Jaguars in a trade with the Miami Dolphins on March 9, 2017.
Albert, a starter in 118 of 120 career games and a Pro Bowl selection in 2013 and 2015, was expected to compete with rookie second-round selection Cam Robinson at left tackle.
Albert, who missed the voluntary portion of the Jaguars' offseason program in an unsuccessful effort to renegotiate his contract, participated in the mandatory three-day minicamp in June. He said during the minicamp he planned to attend training camp and would be in shape at that time.
"After nine seasons playing in the National Football League, I have decided to retire from the game that has given me so much," said Albert. "I would like to thank Mr. Khan and the Jaguars organization, Mr. Ross, Joe Philbin, Dennis Hickey and the Dolphins organization and Mr. Hunt, Carl Peterson, Herm Edwards and the Chiefs organization for providing me with the opportunity of a lifetime. GOD has blessed me with so much through football that I thought would never be attainable. It's been truly a blessing. I cherish all of the relationships and people I have encountered while playing in the NFL! Special thanks to Al Groh and the University of Virginia for giving me the opportunity for a great education and showing faith in me when no one else wanted to take a chance on me. I am truly thankful for my UVA family.
"This is such a special league and it's been an honor and a privilege to play this sport professionally for the past nine years. I wish Coach Marrone and my Jacksonville teammates the best of luck on their journey this season. During my short stint in Jacksonville, I quickly realized that they are working incredibly hard to turn the corner and I truly believe that they will find success in the coming years. I look forward to returning to Miami, the place that I now call 'home,' and running my businesses, while giving back to the community. While this chapter of my life is coming to an end, my story is still going and I hope you'll follow along. I will be furthering and finishing my education. GOD BLESS AND GODSPEED."
Albert participated in the first three days of 2017 Training Camp, working with the first-team offensive line on Thursday and Saturday. He worked with the second team on Friday, with Robinson working with the first team that day.
