Alshon Jeffery to Retire as Chicago Bear

The veteran wide receiver announced his plan to end his career with the team that drafted him in 2012.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Football

Expressive editorial sports illustration showing a football player in navy and orange reaching for a ball in mid-air. — Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, a 2012 draft pick, announced he will officially retire as a member of the Chicago Bears. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Former wide receiver Alshon Jeffery revealed his intention to retire as a member of the Chicago Bears during a recent podcast appearance. Jeffery stated that he wants to conclude his professional journey with the organization where he began his NFL tenure.

Why it matters

Jeffery aims to honor his roots by retiring with the franchise that selected him in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. The move recognizes his historical connection to Chicago, where he earned a spot on the Top 100 Bears of all-time list.

Jeffery and teammate Brandon Marshall combined for 2,716 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns during the 2013 season. Throughout his career, Jeffery also signed major contracts including a one-year, $9.5 million deal and a four-year, $52 million extension with the Eagles.

The players

Alshon Jeffery

A veteran NFL wide receiver who played for the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles.

Chicago Bears

A professional American football team that competes in the National Football League.

Philadelphia Eagles

A professional American football team that secured a championship victory in Super Bowl LII.

Brandon Marshall

A former NFL wide receiver who was traded to the Chicago Bears in 2012.

The details

Jeffery, who has not played in the NFL since 2020, announced the news on the Up & Adams podcast. During his career, he achieved significant milestones, including winning Super Bowl LII while playing for the Philadelphia Eagles.

2012: Alshon Jeffery is selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the NFL Draft.
2013: Jeffery earns Pro Bowl honors while playing for Chicago.
2017: Jeffery signs a one-year, $9.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.
2020: Jeffery makes his last appearance in an NFL game.
October 31, 2026: The announcement of his retirement plans is published.

Season Trajectory

Jeffery's decision reflects a common trend where veterans seek closure by returning to their original franchise to cement their legacy. This marks a final transition for a player who reached the pinnacle of the sport in Super Bowl LII before his later retirement from active play.

The announcement confirms Jeffery will not be a candidate for any future roster additions or active depth charts for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts now consider his career statistics and historical ranking at No. 80 on the Top 100 Bears list finalized.

The takeaway

Jeffery's plan to retire as a Bear highlights the significance of players valuing their original organizational ties long after their active playing days conclude. Retirements like this serve as a closing chapter that allows both the player and the city to commemorate their shared history.