By Sunday 
After battling injuries throughout the 2024 season, Detroit Lions defensive lineman John Cominsky has decided to hang up his cleats for good. The 29-year-old announced his retirement on Monday, citing a series of injuries that ultimately forced him to step away from the game.
“After six years in the NFL, I am officially medically retiring,” Cominsky shared in his statement. “I am proud of the career I had, but have accumulated a combination of injuries that are overwhelming my desire to continue playing.”
Cominsky entered the league as a fourth-round pick for the Atlanta Falcons in 2019. During his three seasons in Atlanta, he struggled to find a consistent role, making 27 appearances but only one start. His time with the Falcons ended in 2022 when he was waived, but he quickly drew interest on the waiver wire.
The Detroit Lions claimed him, and Cominsky seized the opportunity. He became a key part of the Lions’ defensive front, starting eight games in his first year and playing 60% of defensive snaps. His strong performance earned him a two-year, $8.5 million extension, and he set career highs in 2023 with 36 tackles and two sacks.
Expectations were high for 2024, but a torn MCL in the summer sidelined him for the entire season. By December, it became clear he wouldn’t return, and now the Lions must plan for a future without him on the defensive line.
Cominsky retires after appearing in 60 combined regular-season and playoff games, closing his career with over $10 million in earnings. As he steps away from the game, his next chapter begins outside of the NFL.