Former Longhorn Ryan Watts announces retirement
Former Texas Longhorns defensive back Ryan Watts officially announced his medical retirement from football following a career-ending neck injury, days after it was announced he was being released. Watts, drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, shared a heartfelt statement on social media expressing his gratitude and optimism for the future.
— Ryan Watts (@TheRyanWatts) April 30, 2025
"I have dedicated my entire life to my dream of playing professional football since I was just 6 years old," Watts wrote. "Because of the injury I sustained last year, I had to make the heartbreaking decision to step away from the gam I've worked so hard for."
Ryan Watts was a beloved Longhorn
Watts' road to the NFL wasn't flashy—It was tough, physical, and quietly dependable. After transferring from Ohio State, he became an immediate contributor and key leader for a Texas defense that played with a chip on its shoulder.
He wasn't a stat sheet guy, but what he brought was far more valuable: stability, physicality, leadership, and a presence that younger teammates could look up to. In a secondary brimming with talent, Ryan Watts was the tone-setter.
The injury that ended a dream
Ryan Watts didn't just enjoy playing football—he loved it. He fought for every opportunity and clawed his way into the NFL with work ethic, toughness, and grit. It's not easy to give up the game when you've invested nearly two decades of your life into it. But it's how he is handling it that defines his character.
"While this situation is extremely difficult for me to come to terms with," he wrote, "I remain grateful to the Pittsburgh Steelers organization for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to make my NFL dreams come true."
What's next for Ryan Watts?
Watts isn't feeling sorry for himself. He's not playing the victim. He thanked his family. Thanked the Steelers. And continues to trust in his faith. “I trust that with God's guidance, I will find the strength to embrace what comes next."
So what will that be? That's still unclear, but based on everything we know about the kind of teammate, competitor, and person he is, it's not hard to imagine him finding success--whether it's coaching, mentorship, or something beyond the bounds of football.
His football career might be over. But his impact on the program—and the example he is setting for how to handle adversity—will last a whole lot longer.