Jamie Collins Sr., the former Cleveland Browns linebacker, announced his retirement from the NFL. The 12-year veteran played the majority of his career with the New England Patriots, where he was drafted and won two Super Bowls. The Cleveland Browns traded for Collins halfway through the 2016 season, and he would spend two more seasons with the Browns after signing a four-year, $50 million contract in 2017.
Collins had a difficult time with the Browns after signing his extension. New defensive coordinator Gregg Williams couldn’t find a role for the former Pro Bowler in his 4-3 defense. Collins tore his MCL midway through the 2017 season and finished the season on Injured Reserve. In 2018 Collins was able to return to form as he led the Browns in tackles. The Browns cut Jamie Collins the following offseason. Collins recorded 203 tackles, seven sacks, and two interceptions in his 30 games for the Browns.
Collins concluded his career with two more stops with the New England Patriots and one with the Detroit Lions. Collins was an exceptional player possessing a rare blend of size and speed. While Collins won’t end up in the Hall of Fame, he did etch his name in the NFL rule book. The linebacker inspired the NFL to change its special teams’ rules to penalize players jumping over the long snapper while attempting to block a kick.
Jamie Collins is not the only former Browns linebacker to announce their retirement this season. Collins’ teammate Christian Kirksey announced his retirement in September.
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