Okay, so here we go. Picture this: C.J. Mosley, a linebacker who’s been like the rockstar of defense for years, just decided to hang up his cleats. And, oh boy, he made the announcement on his 33rd birthday—talk about timing, right?
Now, Mosley’s been with the Jets for the past six years. Yeah, that’s right, six whole years of tackling and being, well, the brains of the defense. He used to call the shots on the field, guiding the young guns like Quincy Williams and Jamien Sherwood, teaching them the ropes. It’s like he was their football Yoda or something.
Funny enough, his farewell speech on Instagram wasn’t just the typical “peace out.” He got all philosophical, talking about waking up from childhood dreams. Deep stuff, huh? He said it’s time for a new chapter—new dreams and all that jazz. It’s gonna be tough, but every sacrifice was worth it. His words, not mine.
But wait, let’s rewind a bit. The Jets kinda pushed him out in March. His last season was a bit of a bumpy ride, thanks to a pesky toe injury and a herniated neck disc. Ouch. Played only four games. I mean, could’ve been worse, right?
Anyway, Mosley came to the Jets in 2019 with a big, fat contract—$85 million. The idea was to shake things up, culture-wise, under coach Adam Gase. His first game was like, legendary—pick-six, fumble recovery, and six tackles against the Bills. But then bam! He got injured and missed most of the season. Talk about a buzzkill.
Skipping over to 2020, he sat out ’cause—well, COVID-19. Safety first. But then in 2021, he was back, lighter and ready to vibe with coach Robert Saleh’s plans. He actually ended up being the team MVP that year. Not too shabby.
Then there was 2022—Pro Bowl, second-team All-Pro. He was on fire! Played every single game that season. Hit a bit of a snag last year with that toe injury and neck pain. But hey, the guy’s human, after all.
Fast forward to today, the new Jets crew, coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey, decided to let him go. Probably not what he wanted for his birthday, but life goes on, right?
Before the Jets, Mosley was a Ravens star, picked in the first round back in 2014. Four-time Pro Bowler, part of their fierce defense. The guy’s legacy? Rock solid, even if the Jets didn’t snag a championship.
So, there you have it. C.J. Mosley, forever remembered as a beast on the field, is off to tackle whatever dreams come next. End of an era, folks.
