New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light is retiring from football after 11 rock-solid seasons as an NFL starter.
ProFootballTalk's Mike Florio first reported the news, and a league source confirmed it to NFL Network. Light's possible retirement has been a source of much speculation since the end of the season, with the lineman not commenting publicly.
The Patriotsprepared for this decision. They are expected to move last year's first-round pick, Nate Solder, to left tackle, with second-year pro Marcus Cannon at right tackle until Sebastian Vollmer can prove himself healthy. New pickup Robert Gallery will provide depth at guard, and starter Brian Waters could wind up getting some of the money that the Patriots will save with Light coming off the books.
Light made three Pro Bowls in his career and was a first-team All-Pro in 2007. He started in five Super Bowls and won three titles, with New England's first championship coming in Light's rookie year. Sometimes, Light's great sense of humor overshadowed how serious he took the game. Light didn't have a Hall of Fame career, but few tackles were more consistent and reliable over the last decade.
He's definitely walking away on his own terms, playing well in his final game against the New York Giants. His dancing after the game: somewhat less successful.
