Seattle Seahawks defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence has announced that the 2026 season will be his last in the National Football League. Lawrence, 34, is entering his 13th season in the league and confirmed his decision to retire at the end of the upcoming season to Yahoo Sports.
The veteran player had contemplated retiring earlier this year following the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots in February. He ultimately chose to play one more season.
"It was a tough process," Lawrence told Yahoo Sports' Jori Epstein. "But through the grace of God, I'm able to play another year and soak it all up one more good time before I hang it up." He then confirmed, "this will be my last year."
Lawrence joined the Seahawks last year after an 11-season tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, who drafted him in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. During his time with the Cowboys, he recorded 503 tackles, 61.5 sacks, two interceptions, 21 forced fumbles, and eight fumble recoveries. He was selected to five Pro Bowls and earned second-team All-Pro honors once.
Last season with the Seahawks, Lawrence recorded 53 tackles, six sacks, two fumble returns for touchdowns, and three forced fumbles during the regular season. He also added two sacks in the playoffs, contributing to Seattle's second Super Bowl title. His wife and six children remained in Dallas last season, while he played in Seattle.