Jacksonville Jaguars left tackle Branden Albert is retiring from the NFL after nine seasons, the team announced Monday.
The two-time Pro Bowler joined the Jaguars via trade from the Miami Dolphins this offseason and was expected to earn the starting left tackle job.
"This is such a special league and it's been an honor and a privilege to play this sport professionally for the past nine years," Albert said in a statement. "I wish Coach (Doug) Marrone and my Jacksonville teammates the best of luck on their journey this season.
"During my short stint in Jacksonville, I quickly realized that they are working incredibly hard to turn the corner and I truly believe that they will find success in the coming years. I look forward to returning to Miami, the place that I now call 'home,' and running my businesses, while giving back to the community. While this chapter of my life is coming to an end, my story is still going and I hope you'll follow along. I will be furthering and finishing my education. God bless and Godspeed."
With Albert out of the picture, second-rounder Cam Robinson will likely be tasked with protecting Blake Bortles' blindside.
The 32-year-old Albert began his career with the Kansas City Chiefs as a first-round pick before joining the Dolphins in 2014 as a free agent. He started 118 of 120 career games and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2013 and 2015.