Trae Waynes: 'In my head, I'm done' playing football

It seems that veteran cornerback Trae Waynes has played his final snap in the league.

When asked on the "Geary & Stein Sports Show" if he's still keeping the door open to other teams, the free agent said, "I mean, it's open, but I'm not really exploring anything, to be honest with you."

Waynes continued: "Multiple teams have actually called, but in my head, I'm done. I'm not officially doing it, I'd say, just because I don't do that shit. I'm retired, but it's not like I announced it or anything."

The Minnesota Vikings drafted Waynes in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He spent five seasons with the NFC North club before signing with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. However, he only played in five regular-season games over the past two campaigns due to various injuries. Waynes appeared during the Bengals' Super Bowl run but was limited to special teams.

The Michigan State product cited those health concerns as motivation for his retirement. Although he said he considered joining the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason, Waynes also felt it was more important to spend time with his family.

"Could I easily keep playing several more years? Yes," he said. "But I got a family. I want to be around with my kids more."

Waynes started 57 of his 79 career games. He tallied 259 tackles, 43 passes defended, and seven interceptions during his career.

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