Image Source: Fox News
Former Baltimore Ravens tight end Hayden Hurst, who made a notable transition from baseball to football, officially announced his retirement on March 10, 2026. After an impressive seven years in the NFL, Hurst is stepping away from the game to focus on his family and personal life.
At 32 years old, Hurst reflected on his journey in a heartfelt message shared on social media. “About a year overdue but life sped up on me these last 12 months. I want to thank everyone that has been a part of my journey and helped me navigate this crazy life over the last 15 years of my sports journey,” he stated. From his high school days at Bolles to his NBA aspirations and eventual NFL draft, Hurst’s career has been nothing short of remarkable.
From MLB Dreams to NFL Stardom
Before making his mark as an NFL player, Hayden Hurst was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 17th round of the 2012 MLB Draft. However, he made only one minor league appearance as a pitcher, which led him to reconsider his aspirations. Opting for a new direction, he pursued football, leading him to become the 25th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.
Throughout his career, Hurst played for several teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, and finally, the Los Angeles Chargers, where he concluded his playing days during the 2024 season.
A Legacy of Resilience and Growth
In his announcement, Hurst addressed the challenges he faced along the way. “When I was stuck in a dorm room at 18 years old in Pirate City, thinking my sports career was over, I never thought I’d turn it into a 7-year NFL career,” he shared. “I was determined to make football work after baseball failed me, and I never let anyone tell me I couldn’t do anything.”
Hurst’s NFL career included multiple highlights, notably a career-high of 571 yards and six touchdowns while playing for the Falcons. He also made significant contributions to the teams he represented, earning a reputation for hard work and dedication on and off the field.
Plans for the Future
As he transitions into retirement, Hayden Hurst expressed his excitement about starting a new chapter in his life. “Now it’s time to sit back and be the best husband and father I can be!” he declared after sharing his reflections on the various places he has lived and played across the country.
He emphasized feeling “truly at peace” with his decision, noting that he feels grateful for the opportunity to have played in the NFL and the relationships he built along the way.
The Ravens community and sports fans alike will certainly miss Hurst’s contributions on the field as he embarks on this new journey. His story serves as an inspiration for those navigating their paths in sports and life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What team drafted Hayden Hurst?
Hayden Hurst was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens as the 25th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Which teams did Hayden Hurst play for during his NFL career?
Hurst played for the Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Chargers throughout his career.
What led to Hayden Hurst’s retirement?
After seven successful seasons in the NFL, Hurst decided to retire to focus on his personal life and his family, expressing contentment with his athletic achievements.
How did Hayden Hurst’s baseball career influence his football journey?
Hurst was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates before turning to football. His experiences in baseball contributed to his determination to succeed in the NFL after realizing baseball wasn’t the right path for him.
What are Hurst’s plans after retiring from football?
Hurst intends to take time off to be a devoted husband and father as he transitions away from professional sports.
