NFL star 'to retire' aged 27 just 10 months after signing $43m contract

One NFL star has reportedly decided to retire at the age of just 27, less than a year after signing a new deal.

The NFL season came to a close last month, with the Seattle Seahawks beating the New England Patriots 29-13 at the Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Before beating the New England Patriots, the Seahawks dispatched the likes of the Philadelphia Eagles, the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams.

Meanwhile, the New England Patriots' route to Super Bowl LX included clashes against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Houston Texans and the Denver Broncos.

Recently, it has been claimed that Chicago Bears star Drew Dalman has decided to step away from the NFL at the age of just 27.

During the off season in 2025, it was reported that Dalman had signed a new three-year deal with the Bears, worth around $42 million.

The American also played a key role in the team's revival, which ended against the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round.

Having started all 17 matches for the Bears, Dalman was ranked top in pass block win rate, fifth in run block win rate and also had the eighth highest pass block win rate among all interior offensive linemen.

Drew Dalman has reportedly decided to step away from the NFL. Image: Getty

As reported by ESPN, Dalman has now informed the Bears that he is retiring from the NFL after five seasons.

Looking ahead, the report stated that the Bears could find a replacement for Dalman from within their own squad, the free agent market, trade or the draft.

It has been stated that Dalman's decision came at a good time for the Bears as the free agent market kicks off on March 11, with the 2026 Draft beginning in late April.

Reacting to the news of Dalman's retirement from the NFL, teammate Caleb Williams took to social media and wrote: "Hulk..." accompanied by a crying emoji.

In addition to replacing Dalman, the Bears will also have to find someone to fill in for Ozzy Trapilo, after he suffered a serious knee injury during the playoffs.