Patrick Chung announces retirement

Longtime New England Patriots defensive back Patrick Chung announced his retirement Thursday.

"I want to say thank you to the Patriots organization, my family, my fans, coaches, just everyone," Chung wrote on Instagram. "I'm in tears writing this but I've decided to hang up the cleats. Bill (Belichick), Mr. (Robert) Kraft, thank you for giving me the opportunity to play for your team for 11 years. I love you."

He continued: "Bill, for teaching me life on and off the field, I will not forget that. To my teammates, trainers, EQ team, video guys, meal room employees, janitors, etc., I love you guys and ladies. Thank you for being the rock to the organization. For cleaning up, feeding, taking care of me for 11 years. You will forever be family.

"But it's time to start a new life. Patriot until I die! Love you all."

Chung joined the Patriots as a 2009 second-round pick out of Oregon. He spent 10 seasons with New England and had a one-year stint with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013. Chung opted out of the 2020 campaign.

The 33-year-old defensive back won three Super Bowls with the Patriots and amassed 773 career tackles along with 11 interceptions.

Chung was an indispensable cog in New England's latest dynasty, often getting matched up against tight ends in the passing game. His successful tenure came after a disappointing first stint, and head coach Bill Belichick eventually acknowledged he misused Chung the first time around.

The Patriots signed Jalen Mills to a four-year contract at the beginning of free agency, perhaps knowing that Chung was getting ready to hang up his cleats.

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