The Detroit Lions selected Pat O’Connor as the No. 250 pick in the seventh round in 2017. However, he failed to make the 53-man roster, and the team eventually waived him. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed the defensive end to be part of their practice squad, and they promoted him to the active roster midway through the season.
He found a home with the Buccaneers and spent the next six years with them. The team included the Eastern Michigan product in their Super Bowl-winning lineup during the 2020 season, with Tom Brady leading the way for his seventh ring.
The Lions brought O’Connor back in 2024, and he suited up for them in the last two campaigns.
He played eight games in 2025, including three starts, recording 10combined tackles consisting of five assisted and five solo efforts. O’Connor’s one-year contract expired after the season, and no team signed him.
Detroit Lions defensive end Pat O’Connor (95) reacts after Kansas City Chiefs scores a touchdown during the second half.
Pat O’Connor Retires After 9 NFL Seasons
O’Connor announced his retirement on Instagram on Thursday. He still can’t believe he lasted in the NFL and takes pride in having suited up for only two teams.
“If you had told my younger self that I’d play this long, spend my entire career with just two teams, get drafted, and win a Super Bowl, he would have called you crazy,” O’Connor wrote. “But here we are.”
The 32-year-old also thanked his coaches, teammates and supporters throughout his career. He ended his message by expressing excitement for what lies ahead for him.
“As one chapter closes, another begins,” O’Connor wrote. “Now it’s time to enter the real world. I’m beyond excited and ready for whatever comes next. Thank you, football, for everything.”
Detroit decided not to re-sign himafter adding other players via free agency. O’Connor hung his cleats up for good with 88 games under his belt, along with 52 combined tackles.
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