Former Patriots and Saints Tight End Ben Watson Announces Retirement From NFL

After briefly stepping away from the game last year only to be lured back to New England, Benjamin Watson battled injury and suspension in 2019 while featuring in 10 games for the Patriots.

Now, the 39-year-old has once again announced his retirement, calling it quits after a 16-year career in the pros.

Benjamin Watson announced his retirement after 16 NFL seasons ?

- 547 REC
- 6,058 YDS
- 44 TDS pic.twitter.com/cgOjOw9aw1
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) March 16, 2020

Watson's lengthy career finished where it started: with the Patriots. He was drafted by the Pats as the 32nd overall pick in 2004. The former first-rounder spent his first six NFL seasons in New England, before joining the Browns in 2010. He then spent time in both Baltimore and New Orleans before returning to the Pats in 2019.

Across 205 career games, Watson racked up 547 receptions, 6,058 receiving yards and 44 touchdowns. He was a part of seven playoff teams, five in New England and two in New Orleans.

Last year with the Patriots, Watson totaled 17 receptions and 173 yards while being targeted 24 times.

Mr. Benjamin Watson!!!! More than football! Able to be a leader in every aspect of life of how to carry oneself and devote your all to your craft, to your faith and your family!!!! Biiiig Bro!!!! #onceasaintalwaysasaimt #GodIzLove https://t.co/IwisvyE11c
— cameron jordan (@camjordan94) March 16, 2020

Watson left an emotional note for his fans on Twitter, in which he thanked everyone who supported him along his football journey, giving a shoutout to all four of his past employers. What a pleasant gesture on the way out.