David Andrews Delivers Heartfelt, Emotional NFL Retirement Speech Thanking Georgia Bulldogs for Shaping His Life and Football Journey
Thank you all for being here today. It’s a moment that I’ve thought about many times throughout my career but never quite imagined would come this soon. Standing here now, announcing my retirement from the NFL, I feel a mixture of emotions—gratitude, pride, sadness, and overwhelming appreciation for the incredible journey I’ve been so fortunate to experience.
When I first started playing football, I was just a kid with a dream, a dream shaped by the people who believed in me, supported me, and pushed me to be my very best. Today, as I reflect on my journey, one thing is abundantly clear: none of this would have been possible without the foundation laid for me at the University of Georgia. The Georgia Bulldogs were the first true family I found in football, and they’ve been a part of me every single step of the way.
I want to start by thanking the Georgia Bulldogs—my coaches, teammates, and the entire program. You welcomed me in, challenged me, and shaped me into the player and person I am today. Playing for Georgia wasn’t just about football; it was about learning discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and what it truly means to be part of something bigger than yourself. The lessons I learned on that field in Athens weren’t just about winning games; they were about building character and preparing me for the battles that lie ahead—on the field and in life.
To my coaches at Georgia, thank you for seeing something in me when I was just a kid from Boston trying to make his way in the deep South. You believed in my potential and gave me the tools and confidence to push beyond my limits. Every practice, every film session, every game was an opportunity to grow, and you never let me settle for anything less than my best. That kind of leadership and mentorship meant the world to me, and it’s something I carried with me throughout my NFL career.
To my teammates, some of whom I’m proud to still call my closest friends, you made those years unforgettable. The bond we formed on and off the field was real, and it’s a bond that will last a lifetime. We shared victories, defeats, and countless moments of hard work and laughter. Playing alongside you taught me the value of trust, loyalty, and sacrifice. We pushed each other to be better, and together we made the Georgia Bulldogs a force to be reckoned with.
I also want to thank the fans—the Dawg Nation—who stood by us through thick and thin. Your passion and energy made Sanford Stadium one of the most electric places to play in college football. Hearing your cheers, feeling your support, and knowing you had our backs gave me an extra boost every time I stepped on the field. You were more than just spectators; you were an essential part of our team.
Leaving Georgia and stepping into the NFL was a dream come true, but it was also a daunting transition. The league is filled with the best athletes in the world, and I knew I had to bring everything I had learned at Georgia—and then some—to compete at that level. Thankfully, the values instilled in me by the Bulldogs—hard work, resilience, and unwavering commitment—prepared me well for the challenges ahead.
I was drafted by the New England Patriots, a franchise known for its excellence, discipline, and championship pedigree. From day one, I was surrounded by greatness. Playing alongside some of the most talented and driven players in the league pushed me to elevate my game. The Patriots organization became my second family, and the lessons I learned there about leadership, preparation, and mental toughness have stayed with me throughout my career.
But my journey hasn’t been without its hardships. Injuries, setbacks, and moments of doubt tested me in ways I never anticipated. There were times when I wondered if I’d ever be able to return to the field, or if I could continue to perform at the highest level. But every time I faced adversity, I thought back to my days at Georgia—the grit and determination we were taught to embody—and it gave me strength. The Bulldog spirit is one of resilience and never backing down, and that spirit carried me through the toughest times.
As I stand here today, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Patriots organization for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level. To my coaches, teammates, and staff in New England, thank you for your support and camaraderie. You have been a part of some of the most memorable moments of my life, and I will always cherish the relationships we built.
To the fans of the Patriots and everyone who has supported me throughout my career, your encouragement and passion have been invaluable. Whether it was a small gesture after a game or a packed stadium roaring your support, it meant everything to me. Football is a team sport, but it’s also a community, and I’m proud to have been a part of both.
Retiring from football is bittersweet. It’s hard to say goodbye to the game that has given me so much—a sense of purpose, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable experiences. But I’m also excited for what the future holds. I look forward to new challenges, opportunities to give back, and time with my family and friends who have been my rock throughout this journey.
Speaking of family, I want to take a moment to thank mine. To my parents, siblings, and my wife—your love, patience, and sacrifices have made this all possible. You celebrated the highs with me and lifted me through the lows. You reminded me of what truly matters beyond the field. Your unwavering support kept me grounded, and I am forever grateful.
As I move forward, I carry the lessons and memories from both Georgia and the NFL close to my heart. The foundation built by the Georgia Bulldogs was the bedrock of my career, and the pride of wearing that red and black jersey will never fade. I am a Bulldog forever.
I hope my journey can inspire young athletes out there to chase their dreams with passion and perseverance. The path isn’t always easy, but with the right mindset, hard work, and support system, anything is possible. Remember to cherish the people who help you along the way, and never forget where you come from.
Thank you again to everyone who has been a part of this incredible ride. Thank you to the Georgia Bulldogs for shaping my early career and my character. Thank you to the New England Patriots for trusting me and allowing me to live out my dream. And thank you to the fans, family, and friends who stood by me every step of the way.
This isn’t just a goodbye—it’s a heartfelt thank you and a promise to carry the Bulldog spirit forward in everything I do. I’m proud of what we accomplished together, and I look forward to supporting the next generation of players who will continue the legacy.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Go Dawgs.
