The Miami Dolphins and the NFL community bid farewell to one of the league’s premier offensive linemen as left tackle Terron Armstead officially announced his retirement on Saturday, April 5, 2025. The five-time Pro Bowler, who spent the last three seasons protecting the Dolphins’ quarterback, concluded a remarkable 12-year career that spanned stints with the New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins. Armstead shared the news at a private retirement party in Miami’s Wynwood district, surrounded by teammates, coaches, and friends from across his illustrious journey.
Armstead, 33, leaves behind a legacy defined by elite performance, leadership, and resilience. Drafted in the third round by the Saints in 2013, he quickly rose to prominence, earning three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 to 2020 and a second-team All-Pro nod in 2018 while safeguarding Drew Brees’ blind side. In 2022, he signed a five-year, $75 million contract with the Dolphins, where he added two more Pro Bowl honors in his first two seasons with the team. Despite battling persistent injuries, Armstead’s 2024 campaign was a testament to his grit—he started 15 games, a career high, and earned an 89.4 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking him fourth among all offensive tackles.
The announcement came as little surprise to the Dolphins organization, which had been preparing for this possibility throughout the offseason. Head coach Mike McDaniel had previously indicated that the team was operating under the assumption that Armstead might not return for 2025, a stance reinforced by the selection of Patrick Paul in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Paul, a 6-foot-7, 332-pound tackle from Houston, is now poised to step into the starting left tackle role, though the Dolphins may still seek additional depth in the upcoming draft or free agency.
Armstead’s retirement party was a star-studded affair, drawing luminaries like former Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who delivered a heartfelt tribute. “Terron wasn’t just a protector on the field; he was a leader in every sense,” Brees said. “He exemplified what it takes to be a champion.” Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receiver Tyreek Hill, and coach Mike McDaniel were also in attendance, underscoring Armstead’s impact as a captain and mentor.
In a poignant revelation, Armstead disclosed that he played nearly the entire 2024 season with a knee condition severe enough that a doctor had recommended knee-replacement surgery early in the year. Defying medical advice, he suited up week after week, cementing his reputation as one of the toughest players in the game. “I gave everything I had to this sport,” Armstead told the gathered crowd. “It’s time for the next chapter.”
For the Dolphins, Armstead’s departure leaves a void both on the field and in the locker room. His contract, which ran through 2026, will likely be processed as a post-June 1 retirement, providing Miami with some salary cap relief. The team now turns its focus to Paul and the offensive line’s future, with general manager Chris Grier expected to prioritize the unit in the offseason after losing a key veteran presence.
Armstead retires as one of the most respected offensive tackles of his era, with his five Pro Bowl selections tying him for fourth-most among tackles since 2013. As he transitions to the next phase—potentially in broadcasting or community outreach—fans in New Orleans and Miami will remember him not just for his blocks, but for the heart he brought to every snap.
“Congrats on an incredible career, Terron,” the Dolphins posted on social media. “You’ll always be part of the family.”