Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Baltimore Ravens center Ryan Jensen was a crucial part of Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl run in 2020, and now, he’s hanging up his cleats.
Jensen officially announced on Friday that he’s retiring from the NFL, putting a bookend on his career that started in 2013 with Baltimore. The decision comes after Jensen spent 2023 on Injured Reserve due to a knee injury he suffered in preseason during the 2022 season.
Jensen was a fan favorite in Tampa Bay, not only renowned for his excellent play at center but also for his fiery attitude on the field and his kindness off of it. Jensen was one of the more beloved free agency signings in team history, and as a result, fans made sure to show their love and give respects to the player they affectionately called “Big Red” on Sundays.
Check out what social media is saying about Jensen and all he did for the Buccaneers below:
Is there a free agent signing Pre-Tom Brady more beloved in Tampa than Ryan Jensen?
— Ashlie (@EMT_Ashlie) February 2, 2024
Tom Brady gets most of the credit, but this guy played a massive role in changing the culture of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. An absolute warrior on the field, and one of the best offensive linemen in franchise history.
🫡 @sinjen66 🏴☠️ https://t.co/ZtUjonxKnM
— Collin Haalboom (@SI_Buccaneers) February 2, 2024
First player feature with the Bucs ⏩️ first drink (of many) at the Super Bowl after party 😂
Was a joy getting to tell some of the stories of @sinjen66’s career. Happy to call him and Steph friends. Even happier for their next venture. Salut, big guy. Espresso martinis soon. pic.twitter.com/M16kfDaVCT
— Carmen Vitali (@CarmieV) February 2, 2024
With each passing day, the fact that he was able to play all 82 snaps in last year’s Wild Card game vs. the Cowboys is more and more remarkable.
Thank you for your years of great service, @sinjen66! Definitely an all-time Buccaneer and a true tone setter for our Super Bowl team! https://t.co/F0flJPvL9f pic.twitter.com/qLHK2iSvFI
— Djon Mustard. The ‘D’ is silent. (@M1K3EvansTD) February 2, 2024
@sinjen66 Thank you Red!! Enjoy your retirement! You gave us everything when you were on field! bought tenacity to our squad and led by example!! We are better team because of you! pic.twitter.com/yHIT2mimX9
— Port Richey Lou (@Lou_Port_Richey) February 2, 2024
Loved the way Ryan Jensen played Center. Didn’t take kindly to defenders taking dirty shots at his QBs and made em pay. That fire will be missed.
— Nσʂtαlɠiƈ Aɳt 🏁🐍🖤 (@Holeyfield85) February 2, 2024
Ryan Jensen has officially announced his retirement. multiple Pro Bowls and leaves with a Super Bowl ring. very nice, memorable career for him. wish him the best in his endeavors outside of playing football. #Buccaneers
— Dan Vachalek (@Dyhard) February 2, 2024
