Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Michael Pierce announced his retirement Wednesday after a distinguished nine-year NFL career. Pierce, 32, made the announcement on the “Sports Spectrum” podcast, concluding a journey that began as an undrafted free agent and culminated in a respected tenure with the Ravens and Minnesota Vikings.
Pierce’s NFL career commenced in 2016 when he signed with the Ravens after graduating from Samford University. He quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the defensive line, participating in 16 games during his rookie season. Over his career, Pierce amassed 238 tackles, 9.5 sacks, six fumble recoveries, and 25 quarterback hits across 99 games, including 59 starts. His tenure included stints with the Ravens (2016-2019; 2022-2024) and the Vikings (2021).
A memorable highlight of Pierce’s career occurred in his final regular-season game, where he secured his first career interception. The play went viral, showcasing the 355-pound lineman’s athleticism and eliciting widespread admiration from teammates and fans alike.
Throughout his career, Pierce earned over $27 million, reflecting his value and impact on the field. His retirement will result in a $2 million dead cap hit for the Ravens in 2025.
Pierce’s journey from undrafted free agent to a cornerstone of the Ravens’ defense underscores his dedication and resilience. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the franchise, and he departs the NFL with the respect and admiration of the football community.
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