Many NFL players likely envy Detroit Lions defensive end John Cominsky.
The 29-year-old pass-rusher announced his retirement from the league on Monday in a move that took many by surprise, but his explanation for walking away at such a young age before injuries made the decision for him is one to be admired.
"After 6 years in the NFL, I am officially medically retiring," Cominsky posted on Instagram. "I am proud of the career I had, but have accumulated a combination of injuries that are overwhelming my desire to continue playing.
"Thank you to the Atlanta Falcons for believing in me and drafting an under the radar DII prospect. Thank you to the Detroit Lions for grabbing me off waivers and giving me a second contract and allowing me to show what I can do as an NFL starter.
"Thank you to the front offices and coaches that helped build me up and believed in me. Who would have thought a small town Barberton, Ohio QB would find his way to sacking NFL QBs?"
Cominsky was a stabilizing force on the Lions' defensive line in 2022 and 2023, logging 73 pressures, 52 hurries, and 15 QB hits, per Pro Football Focus, before a torn MCL forced him to miss the entire 2024 season.
The comment section on his Instagram page was flooded with well wishes from Lions fans and former teammates, and Lions quarterback Jared Goff was among the first to send Cominsky a parting message.
"Congrats on the great career brother," Goff commented.
Cominsky joined the Lions one year after Goff arrived via trade from the Los Angeles Rams.
The year Goff had a career-reviving season (4,438 yards, 29 touchdowns, even interceptions) was the year Cominsky had his breakout season as well (14 games, 30 tackles, four sacks, three passes defensed).
A fourth-round pick in the 2019 draft, Cominsky played five seasons in the NFL, three with the Falcons and two with the Lions. He totaled 107 tackles, 7.5 sacks, six passes defensed, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery over 57 career games.
