What It Means:

"My life's purpose is bigger than football," Boldin said in a statement, emphasizing his desire to focus on humanitarian efforts. The 37-year-old wide receiver signed a one-year deal with the Bills on August 7, but after they proceeded to trade away two of the best players on the team in wide receiver Sammy Watkins and defensive back Ronald Darby, the 37-year-old veteran decided retirement was more appealing than being a starter for what is shaping up to be one of the worst teams in the league this season. Jordan Matthews and rookie Zay Jones project to be the Bills top-two wide receivers, followed by Andre Holmes and Rod Streater.

Boldin finishes his career with 1,076 catches (9th-most in NFL history) for 13,779 yards (14th) and 82 touchdowns (tied for 23rd). He was the 2003 Offensive Rookie of the Year, a three-time Pro Bowler, a Super Bowl Champion, and also the 2015 Walter Payton Man of the Year.