Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Ronald Darby Retires from NFL Shortly After Signing with Texans

Darby’s unexpected decision to step away at 31 creates a pathway for rookie Jaylin Smith to assume a larger role in Houston’s secondary.

Overview

  • He signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the Texans in March and withdrew after participating in the first three offseason workouts.
  • Darby concludes a 10-year NFL tenure that spanned six teams and featured a key role in the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2017 Super Bowl run.
  • In 118 career games, the veteran recorded 447 tackles, 106 passes defensed and eight interceptions.
  • Texans coaches and players were taken by surprise, as Darby had been slated to serve as the No. 3 cornerback behind Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter.
  • Jaylin Smith, Houston’s third-round pick, is now poised to see increased practice reps as the team adjusts its cornerback depth chart.