2021 Patriots Draft Pick Confirms Retirement From NFL

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Tre Nixon announced his retirement on social media. The Patriots used the No.242 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft to select him. The NFL world will remember Nixon as Ernie Adams’ final draft pick before his retirement from the Patriots.

Nixon decided to retire from football on Monday. He played three seasons with the Patriots and spent most of his time on the practice unit. Nixon sustained a shoulder injury against the Green Bay Packers in August 2023 and the Patriots waived him. He was reverted to injured reserve for the rest of the campaign.

The Patriots drafted Nixon out of the University of Central Florida where he spent three seasons. He sustained a shoulder injury in his final season in Florida. Nixon played four games and delivered 19 passes for 260 yards and two touchdowns.

The Patriots WR announces retirement after unsuccessful stint with the team

Eliot Wolf and Jerod Mayo didn’t have a plan for Nixon. He didn’t look like someone who can make the roster and the Patriots didn’t need him in the practice unit.

Mayo is building a new roster and his gameplan relies on younger players. New England will enter the new season with a strong roster and players will embrace a different approach in 2024.

In his final preseason with the Patriots, Nixon had four passes for 24 yards and played 60 offensive snaps. Following four consecutive futures contracts, Nixon wasn’t considered an exclusive-rights free agent a couple of months ago.

“Football has been a huge part of my life for the past 20 years,” Nixon wrote. “I’ll forever cherish the memories and relationships I’ve made while playing this game. I am truly grateful for everyone who’s supported me along this journey and I’m excited for what God has in store for me next.”