After amassing 1,000+ yards in just a second season in the NFL, not many wide receivers go on to retire at age 29, but that is exactly what has happened in the case of a former Detroit Lions player and Jacksonville Jaguars draft pick.

Former Pro Bowler and Detroit Lions’ wide receiver, Darrell Demont "D. J." Chark Jr., has officially closed his NFL chapter, announcing his retirement in a goodbye post on Instagram.

“After much contemplation, I have decided to share a proper farewell as I navigate retirement. My journey began at the age of 7 when I signed up for football, unaware of the profound impact it would have on my life. I simply loved the sport and had the unwavering support of my parents. Years later I received the support of my wife, kids, family and thousands of fans!,” the wideout's message read.

After being drafted in round 2 of the 2018 NFL draft, Chark Jr. finished his seven seasons in the NFL with 216 receptions, 3,100 receiving yards, and 24 touchdowns. The 2019 season earned him a Pro Bowl honor with 73 catches, 1,008 yards, and 8 touchdowns.

Right after his best NFL season, Chark Jr. got married to his high school sweetheart in October 2020. During his time in the NFL, he also welcomed  2 children, a daughter in 2021 and a son in 2022. 

“As I write this I reflect on the challenges I’ve faced and overcome, as well as the rewards I’ve reaped. I’ve learned to appreciate every experience and not take any of them for granted,” he added in his post.

Later in his career, Chark Jr. joined the Detroit Lions in 2022 for one season, recording 502 yards in 11 games, with three touchdowns.

Towards the end of his career, Chark Jr. spent his 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Panthers and the Chargers. Later, signed with the Atlanta Falcons.

Chark Jr. never took the field in 2025 after being cut by the Atlanta Falcons during training camp, capping off a frustrating stretch that began with an injury-hit 2024 stint with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Notably, his farewell message didn't cite any injuries as he now moves on to the next chapter in his life.

DJ Chark Jr.’s Next Chapter After the NFL

In a 2025 interview, when asked about his future in the NFL, Chark said that he had bought a house in Fort Worth, Texas, to build a life with his wife and kids. He’d love to play for teams located near his extended family.

He didn’t play for any of those teams, remaining a free agent throughout the season, but in the upcoming years, the commitment to his family could most definitely be seen by the fans, along with charitable work to empower the youth.

“As I enter this next chapter of my life, I remain committed to being an active pillar in my community, empowering the youth through charitable work,” Chark Jr. finally added.

In his message, the clarity behind the message was clear. The former receiver still wants to remain dedicated to philanthropy and community work in the future.

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Monika Khatai

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote