Arizona Cardinals tight end Travis Vokolek has announced his medical retirement from the NFL, citing a serious neck injury he suffered during a game last October.
Vokolek, 28, was hurt during a touchback with 11:01 left in the first quarter of a 31-27 loss at Indianapolis on Oct. 12. After colliding with Colts linebacker Segun Olubi, Vokolek hit the turf awkwardly and lay motionless for an extended period.
Medical staff on the field worked to stabilize his head and neck before placing him on a stretcher. He was then taken to a hospital in Indianapolis. He was eventually cleared to travel home with the team, and the Cardinals placed him on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.
Vokolek shared the news on Instagram, writing: “After numerous visits with doctors and neurologists over the past couple of months, I have been advised to medically retire from the NFL due to a serious neck injury that I suffered this past season. I am extremely grateful and blessed to have been able to live out my childhood dream of playing football at the highest level for the past three years. Football has taught me many life lessons and given me unforgettable memories.”
During his final season, Vokolek appeared in five games, logging 45 special teams snaps and 32 offensive snaps with one start. In eight career games with Arizona since his debut in 2023, he did not record a single reception.
A former college standout at Rutgers and Nebraska, Vokolek used his post to thank teammates, coaches, training staff, and his wife, Ann Marie, for her steadfast support throughout his career.
Vokolek, who grew up in Springfield, Mo., closed his message on a grateful note: “I have attacked everyday of being a professional football player with passion, determination, and discipline. I can say that I truly left everything out on the field. Thank you for all of the love and support. Lastly, thank you football!”
