Derek Wolfe (95) has decided to call it a career. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Veteran DL Derek Wolfe retires after nine seasons

By Adam Stites | Last updated 7/29/22

Free agent defensive lineman Derek Wolfe announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday after nine seasons in the league.

Wolfe, 32, spent the first eight seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos after the team picked him early in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. In 2020, he joined the Baltimore Ravens on a one-year deal and later signed a three-year extension with the team. Last month, Wolfe and the Ravens agreed to an injury settlement that made him a free agent.

“After seasons in the NFL, I’ve decided it’s time to step away from the game. Time for a new beginning.” #ThankYouDWolfe x @Derek_Wolfe95 pic.twitter.com/qeCyOrKLw7
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) July 29, 2022

Wolfe recorded 33 sacks in eight seasons with the Broncos and one in his sole season with the Ravens. Despite signing an extension with Baltimore, he never played in 2021 due to a hip injury.

The injury forced Wolfe to undergo two hip surgeries. During his time with Denver, Wolfe finished the 2017 and 2019 seasons on injured reserve due to neck and elbow injuries.

More must-reads: