NEW ORLEANS — Ryan Ramczyk, a standout right tackle for the New Orleans Saints and a first-round draft pick in 2017, has decided to retire from professional football. The announcement comes after Ramczyk missed all of last season due to ongoing knee issues.
In a heartfelt social media post on Thursday night, Ramczyk reflected on his remarkable journey. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 314 pounds, he shared moments from his life, including a brief stint pursuing a career in welding after finishing high school. Ultimately, the Wisconsin native returned to football and began his collegiate sports career at Wisconsin-Stevens Point, a Division III school. Eventually, he transferred to the University of Wisconsin in 2016, where he earned distinctions including an All-America selection. As part of their 2017 draft, the Saints selected Ramczyk as their second first-round choice, placing him 32nd overall.
“My path to the NFL wasn’t straightforward; it’s not the narrative most anticipate,” Ramczyk articulated. “There were times when people doubted me, and times I doubted myself. It’s amusing how life’s paths intersect. Sometimes, the less traveled route leads to unimagined destinations but turns out to be where you were meant to be all along.”
Upon joining the Saints, Ramczyk immediately became a starter during his rookie year and went on to start all 101 games he participated in for the team. His outstanding performance in 2019 earned him a first-team All-Pro designation.
Part of a formidable 2017 draft class, Ramczyk played alongside other notable players such as Marshon Lattimore, the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, and Alvin Kamara, the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. Together, they were pivotal in guiding the Saints out of a spell of playoff absences, resulting in four consecutive playoff appearances from 2017 to 2020.
One of the highlights of this era was the 2018 season, during which the Saints secured the top playoff seed in the NFC. They hosted the conference title game, narrowly losing in overtime to the Los Angeles Rams after a controversial officiating error in the final minutes. This mistake acknowledged by the NFL, denied them a critical call for pass interference and helmet contact.
Ramczyk’s retirement was anticipated, especially after he sat out the 2023 season’s last four matches, struggling with deteriorating knee cartilage.
“I am overflowing with gratitude for all the sport has offered me,” Ramczyk expressed. “A huge thank you is owed to football, my coaches, and teammates who challenged and supported me.” Additionally, he expressed appreciation for the devoted Saints supporters who made New Orleans feel like home. Looking ahead, Ramczyk is optimistic about the next chapter, particularly the chance to spend quality time with his two sons as they grow.