Patriots special teams veteran Cody Davis announces retirement

New England Patriots veteran special teams player Cody Davis announced his retirement on social media Thursday after 11 seasons in the NFL.

Davis, 34, played safety but primarily competed on special teams for the St. Louis/ Los Angeles Rams (2013-17), Jacksonville Jaguars (2018-19) and Patriots (2020-23). The undrafted free agent out of Texas Tech totaled 118 tackles in 144 games (five starts for Los Angeles) and scored his lone career touchdown last season on a fumble return in a 26-23 win over the host Denver Broncos on Dec. 24.

"God blessed me in not only the athletic ability to play football but also provided the protection, timing, opportunities, and support in order for me to live out my dream of playing in the NFL for 11 years," Davis wrote on Twitter. "I have given everything to all that I did and I'm proud of what I've accomplished. ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.'"

Davis, from Stephenville, Texas, thanked his family, coaches and teams from high school through the NFL, staffs, medical personnel, teachers, fans and the cities in which he played. He also was gracious for his philanthropic opportunities to help communities.

"Honored as 1 of 15 NFF National Scholars-Athletes," Davis wrote. "Earned my masters degree in data science. Created a charity program for Boston Children's Hospital and won their Champions Award. Recognized as NFLPA Community Player of the Week. All of these accolades I hold close to my heart more than any athletic achievement. I'm proud of being able to not only play football but also volunteer, give, love, and serve with every team and in every city we have lived in along this journey."

—Field Level Media