NFL fans are in for a big surprise. Shaq Barrett, who announced his retirement in July 2024, is now seeking to return to the NFL. His decision to apply for reinstatement is making headlines and has fans wondering if they’ll see him back on the field sooner than expected.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Shaq Barrett, the former Pro Bowl linebacker and two-time Super Bowl champ, has applied to return to the NFL just months after retiring in July 2024.
The 32-year-old had retired to focus on his family, but his sudden decision to try and return has caught everyone by surprise. He just signed a $9 million deal with the Miami Dolphins a few months ago, which makes things hard for them as they think about his possible return.
Former Pro-Bowl LB Shaq Barrett, who announced his retirement from the NFL in July, has applied to be reinstated to play immediately, per his agents Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey. Barrett is coming out of retirement. The Dolphins currently hold Barrett’s contractual rights. pic.twitter.com/sImEbWJ4Ni
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 26, 2024
The two-time Super Bowl winner had a great career with both the Buccaneers and the Broncos. In 131 games, he had 59 sacks. His possible return to the NFL would be very helpful for the Dolphins, who are currently on a three-game winning streak and are in the running for a playoff spot.
However, it is still unknown whether Barrett will play for the Dolphins or for another team, which adds to the excitement surrounding his surprise choice to come back.
Shaq Barrett’s wife hints at his next NFL destination
Shaq Barrett is expected to rejoin the Miami Dolphins, as they hold his contract rights. However, hints from his wife, Jordanna Barrett, suggest he may be eyeing a different team.
After she shared a post about his reinstatement, a fan DM’d her, mentioning “Philly!” and Jordana responded positively.
SHAQ BARRET PHILLY BOUND!? @lord_brunson @RealMamaEagle @tomstakes 👀👀 pic.twitter.com/pKQNkh8FCO
— Dalaun Richardson🦅🦅 (@Dalaun_Rich) November 26, 2024
Barrett’s connection to the Dolphins makes a move to Philadelphia unlikely, but if it does occur, it would significantly increase the Eagles’ chances of winning the Super Bowl.