In a surprising turn of events, Michael Gallup has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 28. The wide receiver, who joined the Las Vegas Raiders this offseason, was placed on the reserve/retired list by the team on Tuesday.
Gallup’s short stint with the Raiders came after signing a one-year deal worth up to $3 million in May. However, his tenure with the team will be marked by his unexpected decision to step away from professional football.
A Promising Career with the Cowboys
Michael Gallup was a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, selected by the Dallas Cowboys. He quickly established himself as a reliable target for the franchise. Gallup's most outstanding season came in 2019 when he amassed 1,107 receiving yards and scored six touchdowns, boasting an impressive average of 16.8 yards per catch.
During his time with the Cowboys, Gallup started 67 out of 86 games, logging 266 catches for 3,744 yards and 21 touchdowns, with an average of 14.1 yards per catch. Despite his promising performances, the Cowboys released Gallup in March, even though he had three years and $45.55 million remaining on his contract.
Injuries and Comebacks
Gallup's career was not without its challenges. He suffered an ACL injury, which sidelined him for a significant period. Nevertheless, he fought his way back, collecting 73 catches for 822 yards and six touchdowns in 31 games post-injury. In his final three seasons with the Cowboys, Gallup recorded 108 catches for 1,287 yards and eight touchdowns, highlighting his resilience and determination to contribute to his team despite physical setbacks.
A Swift Transition to Retirement
Gallup's decision to retire comes as a surprise to many, given his recent signing with the Raiders and his relatively young age. As the news broke, the Raiders also announced that several other players, including LB Darien Butler, G Jake Johanning, G Jackson Powers-Johnson, WR Jalen Guyton, and T Kolton Miller, were placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. While it is unclear if these roster moves influenced Gallup's decision, it marks a significant shift for the Raiders as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As fans and teammates reflect on Gallup's career, his contributions to the Cowboys, in particular, stand out. With 3,744 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns over several seasons, Gallup leaves behind a legacy of persistence and prowess on the field. His peak season in 2019 will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to his capability as a top-tier NFL wide receiver.
Though his time with the Raiders was cut short, Michael Gallup's impact on the field and his journey through injuries to become a reliable player will not be forgotten. As the NFL community absorbs the news of his retirement, there is no doubt that Gallup’s contributions to the sport will be remembered by fans and players alike.