Minnesota Vikings tight end Ben Ellefson has retired from football.
Ellefson, 26, announced the decision via a post on his Instagram page.
“Everybody’s story is different,” Ellefson wrote. “And I am proud to say I’ve given the game of football everything I have.”
In the post, Ellefson mentioned that injuries played a role in his decision to retire.
“Injuries are a part of the game and although they are a big reason for me moving on, I am fortunate to be in a spot where I can still walk away from the game aas a player, ready to tackle whatever is next in my life,” Ellefson wrote.
TE Ben Ellefson has announced his retirement.
📷: Ben Ellefson/IG pic.twitter.com/L2HBhZPkkZ
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) June 1, 2023
Injuries have, unfortunately, impacted Ellefson throughout his NFL career. Last season, Ellefson suffered a groin injury that landed him on injured reserve in Week 4. Ellefson was later removed from the injured reserve but did not total another reception.
Over three seasons in the NFL, Ellefson played in 16 games, totaling four receptions for 36 yards.
Ellefson’s retirement may open up a spot on the Vikings’ 53-man roster, especially if they intend to keep four tight ends. Barring injury, T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver are likely locks for the active roster, leaving Johnny Mundt, Nick Muse, and undrafted rookie Ben Sims fighting for the additional roster spots.
