Veteran wide receiver Michael Gallup is officially retiring from the NFL. The Las Vegas Raiders placed him on the reserve/retired list on Tuesday, signaling the end of his career. Gallup, who is 28 years old, played six seasons in the NFL, all with the Dallas Cowboys before signing with the Raiders this offseason.
Early Career and Highlights
- Draft and Rookie Season: Gallup joined the Cowboys as a third-round draft pick from Colorado State in 2018. He made an immediate impact, recording 507 yards as a rookie.
- Breakout Season: In his second season, Gallup emerged as a key target for quarterback Dak Prescott, achieving career highs with 66 catches for 1,107 yards and six touchdowns.
Subsequent Seasons
- Third Season: Gallup maintained solid performance with 843 yards and five touchdowns.
- Final Years with Cowboys: His productivity declined over the next three seasons, with his highest yardage being 445 yards in any single season.
Contract and Financials
- Initial Contract: Gallup signed a five-year, $57.5 million contract with the Cowboys.
- Release and Free Agency: The Cowboys released him this offseason, two years into his contract.
- Raiders Contract: Gallup signed a one-year, $3 million deal with the Raiders, projecting to play a backup role before deciding to retire.
Retirement Announcement
- Retirement Decision: Gallup’s decision to retire was unexpected. He did not address his retirement publicly, leaving the reasons unclear.
- Raiders’ Statement: The Raiders announced his placement on the reserve/retired list as veterans reported to training camp.
Career Stats
- Total Catches: 266
- Total Yards: 3,744
- Total Touchdowns: 21
Legacy and Impact
- Career Highlights: Gallup will be remembered for his breakout second season and his consistent contributions to the Cowboys’ offense.
- Financial Success: Over his career, Gallup earned nearly $30 million.
Conclusion
Michael Gallup’s retirement marks the end of a notable NFL career. From his early promise as a third-round pick to his standout second season, Gallup made significant contributions to the Cowboys. Despite a decline in later years, his impact on the field and his financial success reflect a commendable professional journey. Fans and teammates alike will remember Gallup for his athleticism and dedication to the game.