Former New England Patriots cornerback Joejuan Williams has officially announced his retirement from the NFL. The former second-round draft pick posted his decision on social media.
Williams, who was selected out of Vanderbilt University with the No. 45 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, played in 36 regular season games with the Patriots and missed the entire 2022 season due to injury.
He had two stints with the Minnesota Vikings, along with a couple of short runs with the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints after his time with New England. His status has remained unchanged as a free agent since being released by the Saints in 2024.
Williams recorded 32 total tackles and 6 passes defensed in 36 games with the Patriots.
“Thank you to every Coach that worked with me, every teammate I shared the field with, And the support from my family, friends and fans,” Williams wrote on social media. “Now the same dream I once chased and accomplished…It’s time to impact the game by helping others accomplish theirs.”
2019 Patriots draft pick Joejuan Williams officially announced his retirement today. pic.twitter.com/ih1iR0qGKg
— Zack Cox (@zm_cox) May 15, 2026
Williams can walk away proudly knowing he accomplished his dream of playing in the NFL, which is something he’s wanted ever since he was a kid. Now, there are other kids out there in the next generation with the same dreams that he can help turn to reality.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Forgotten Patriots second-round pick announces retirement from NFL
