Ryan Ramczyk made an announcement Thursday that many had seen coming.
A one-time New Orleans Saints All-Pro right tackle, Ramczyk announced he's retiring after eight years with the franchise.
"What an incredible journey it's been," Ramczyk said in a social media post. "My path to the wasn't a straight line, it wasn't the story most people expect. There were moments when people doubted me, moments when I doubted myself. It's funny how life works out. Sometimes the road less traveled leads to places you never expected, but it ends up being exactly where you were meant to be. Today I reflect on all the twists and turns that got me to this point, from technical college to become a 'welder' to All-Pro in the NFL. As I step into retirement, I'm filled with gratitude for everything this sport has given me."
Ramczyk, 30, hadn't played in a game since Dec. 10, 2023, with knee injuries ultimately hobbling his career and prematurely ending it. Cartilage problems were the culprit in him missing games dating back to the 2021 season, when he played in 10 games. After missing the final four games of the '23 campaign, Ramczyk underwent offseason knee surgery that saw him placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform list prior to the 2024 season, which he missed in full.
In 2017, the Saints spent the 32nd overall pick on Ramczyk and the first-rounder became a staple on the starting front. He was a starter as a rookie and first-team All-Pro in 2019 with second-team All-Pro nods in 2018 and 2020. From his rookie season through 2020, he helped the Saints to four straight NFC South titles and was a crucial and dependable cog blocking for future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees.
For five seasons, Ramczyk and Terron Armstead supplied the Saints with one of the best tackle tandems in the league. Also depleted by injuries, Armstead announced his retirement this offseason, as well.
Eight years after Ramczyk was drafted, the Wisconsin product will represent the Saints at the 2025 Draft, as he's set to announce some of their Day 2 and Day 3 draft picks. Perhaps he'll get the fitting ovation a stellar career ended too soon warrants.
"I'm looking forward to this next chapter in life and am forever grateful," he said. "Who Dat for life."
