NFL wide receiver Collin Johnson has announced his shock retirement from professional football at the age of 28, revealing plans to pursue a Master's degree in Business at MIT Sloan.
Johnson made the announcement on Instagram, stating: 'Football has shaped my life in more ways than I can put into words. It taught me faith, discipline, resilience, leadership, and how to compete at the highest level. I'm thankful for every teammate, coach, organization, and person who helped me along the way.'
He added: 'As I move into this next chapter, I'm excited to continue building Beyond-Sports by launching Founders Academy in partnership with MITdesignX — a venture-building program created for current and former professional athletes building real businesses. For a long time, athletes have been seen as endorsers of other people's companies. I believe we can be the founders, operators, investors, and owners behind them too. Grateful for the game. Excited for what's next.'
Six-Year NFL Career
Johnson played for the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants, Chicago Bears, and Las Vegas Raiders during his six-year NFL career. He was selected in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft after playing college football for the Texas Longhorns. At the time, he was one of the tallest wide receivers in the league, standing at 6 feet 6 inches.
Drafted by the Jaguars, Johnson played 14 games in his rookie season, recording 18 receptions for 272 yards and two touchdowns. He was waived by Jacksonville at the end of the season and subsequently signed by the Giants. With New York, he played 12 games in his first season before missing the entirety of his second year due to injury.
After being released by the Giants, Johnson joined the Chicago Bears' practice squad in October 2023 and was promoted to the active roster in January 2024. Over two seasons in Chicago, he played 12 games, managing just two receptions for a combined 17 yards.
Last year, Johnson signed with the Las Vegas Raiders but failed to make the final roster and was released before the NFL season began.
Next Chapter: Business and Entrepreneurship
Johnson's retirement marks a transition into business and entrepreneurship. Through his venture Beyond-Sports and the Founders Academy, he aims to empower athletes to become founders, operators, investors, and owners of their own companies. The program, developed in partnership with MITdesignX, will support current and former professional athletes in building real businesses.
