In a heartfelt announcement on February 20, 2025, veteran NFL offensive lineman Jon Feliciano declared his retirement from professional football at the age of 33.
This decision comes after a nine-season career marked by resilience, versatility, and leadership across multiple teams.
Career Overview
Feliciano’s journey in the NFL began when he was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, following a notable collegiate career at the University of Miami. Over the years, he showcased his skills with several teams:
Oakland Raiders (2015-2018): Feliciano played four seasons, appearing in 48 games and starting in eight.
Buffalo Bills (2019-2021): His tenure with the Bills was particularly significant, as he became a key contributor on the offensive line, participating in 34 games with 31 starts. Feliciano expressed deep appreciation for his time in Buffalo, stating, “Buffalo is a unique place I will always call home. Thank you, Buffalo, for all the love you showed me, my family, and support staff.”
New York Giants (2022): Feliciano continued to demonstrate his reliability, starting all 15 games he played.
San Francisco 49ers (2023): His final season was marred by a knee injury that required surgery, leading to his placement on injured reserve and ultimately influencing his decision to retire.
Throughout his career, Feliciano participated in 113 regular-season games, starting 61, and contributed to 12 postseason contests with nine starts.
Retirement Decision
The knee injury sustained during the 2023 season played a pivotal role in Feliciano’s retirement. In his announcement, he candidly shared, “After months of weighing my options, I realized I had to leave the game. The fire is still there, but I know I … .”
Despite stepping away, Feliciano left the door open for a potential return, specifically for a playoff run with either the Buffalo Bills or the San Francisco 49ers. He mentioned, “That being said, Buffalo or SF … .”
Legacy and Impact
Known for his versatility, Feliciano adeptly played multiple positions along the offensive line, providing invaluable depth and experience to his teams. Beyond his on-field contributions, he was celebrated for his leadership and resilience, qualities that endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
Feliciano’s journey from a collegiate athlete at the University of Miami to a respected NFL veteran serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of determination and adaptability in professional sports. As he transitions from active play, his legacy will undoubtedly influence future generations of athletes.
For a visual recap of Feliciano’s impactful plays, you can watch his 2021 highlights here:
