Ryan Kerrigan will end his NFL career where he started. The veteran defensive end signed a one-day contract with the Washington Commanders before retiring on Friday, the team announced.
Washington (then known as the Redskins) drafted Kerrigan in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft out of Purdue. Kerrigan spent 10 seasons with Washington. He surpassed Dexter Manley as the franchise’s all-time leader with 95.5 sacks.
Kerrigan had three interceptions, all of which he returned for touchdowns. He also had 26 forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.
“While I’m thankful for the amazing times and memories I was able to have as a player, I’m equally thankful to now have the wisdom and courage to walk away. We will eventually come to the end of our playing days, and that time is now for me,” Kerrigan said in a statement tweeted by the Commanders.
After playing out a five-year, $57.5 million contract with Washington, Kerrigan played with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021.
“We are honored that Ryan reached out and wanted to sign a one-day contract with the organization,” Commanders co-owners Dan and Tanya Snyder said in a statement. “Our all-time official sack leader belongs in the burgundy and gold and we’re proud to welcome him home.”
The Commanders will hold a press conference for Kerrigan Saturday morning before he attends the team’s practice.
