Veteran NFL center Mitch Morse has officially announced his retirement from professional football, concluding a distinguished 10-season career in the league. The 31-year-old offensive lineman, known for his consistency, leadership, and toughness, played his final season with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024 after successful stints with the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills.
Morse’s retirement marks the end of an era for one of the NFL’s most reliable and respected centers, leaving a significant void for the Jaguars as they look to reshape their offensive line heading into the 2025 season.
Mitch Morse’s NFL Career Timeline
Kansas City Chiefs (2015–2018)
Mitch Morse was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round (49th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft out of the University of Missouri.
- Morse immediately became the team’s starting center as a rookie, playing a crucial role in stabilizing the Chiefs' offensive line.
- He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2015, showcasing his quick adaptability and football IQ.
- Over the next three seasons, Morse remained a key part of the Chiefs' offensive front, helping quarterback Alex Smith and later Patrick Mahomes operate a high-powered offense.
- Injuries limited his playing time in 2017 and 2018, leading the Chiefs to eventually move on from him in free agency.
Buffalo Bills (2019–2023)
In 2019, Morse signed a four-year, $44.5 million contract with the Buffalo Bills, making him one of the highest-paid centers in the NFL at the time.
- He quickly became a pillar of stability on the Bills' offensive line, protecting franchise quarterback Josh Allenand anchoring a unit that helped turn Buffalo into a Super Bowl contender.
- In 2022, Morse earned his first career Pro Bowl selection, a recognition of his elite pass-blocking ability and leadership skills.
- Throughout his tenure with the Bills, he played a vital role in the team’s multiple AFC East titles and deep playoff runs.
- Following the 2023 season, Morse was released by Buffalo as a cap-saving measure, ending a five-year stint in which he started 73 games for the franchise.
Jacksonville Jaguars (2024–Final Season)
Morse signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024 to bring veteran leadership and stability to their offensive line.
- He started every game for the Jaguars in his lone season with the team, once again proving his durability and effectiveness.
- Despite his contributions, Jacksonville faced offensive struggles and failed to make a deep playoff run, leading Morse to reflect on his future in the game.
- After ten grueling seasons in the NFL, Morse decided it was time to step away from the game on his own terms.
Retirement Announcement and Reflections
Morse’s retirement comes as a surprise to some fans, given his strong performance in 2024 and the fact that he remained a starting-caliber center. However, his decision appears to be motivated by health concerns and the physical toll of playing in the trenches for a decade.
In his farewell statement, Morse expressed gratitude for his time in the league:
“Football has given me more than I could have ever imagined. The relationships, the memories, the battles—I will cherish them forever. I’m incredibly grateful to my teammates, coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. It’s time for the next chapter.”
His former teammates and coaches flooded social media with tributes, praising Morse’s leadership, professionalism, and toughness.
- Josh Allen, his former quarterback in Buffalo, called Morse “one of the best teammates I’ve ever had.”
- Bills head coach Sean McDermott described him as “the ultimate professional and leader in our locker room.”
- Travis Kelce, tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, wished Morse well, recalling their early years together in Kansas City.
Morse’s Legacy in the NFL
Mitch Morse leaves the NFL with a strong legacy as one of the most consistent and respected centers of his era.
Career Stats & Achievements:
126 career starts in 10 seasons
1 Pro Bowl selection (2022)
5 consecutive playoff appearances with Buffalo (2019-2023)
Protected elite QBs like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen
Highly respected leader and locker room presence
His ability to consistently anchor an offensive line, make crucial adjustments at the line of scrimmage, and protect franchise quarterbacks made him one of the most valuable centers in the league throughout his career.