Notre Dame Football Star Retires After Injury-Plagued NFL Career

Miles Boykin, a promising wide receiver, ends his NFL journey after years of injuries and roster moves.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

After five years in the NFL, former Notre Dame football standout Miles Boykin has announced his retirement from professional football. Boykin, a wide receiver, struggled with a series of injuries that hampered his career after being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2019.

Why it matters

Boykin's story highlights the challenges that many college football stars face when transitioning to the NFL, where injuries can derail even the most promising careers. His retirement also marks the end of an era for Notre Dame football, as the university has produced numerous NFL talents over the years.

The details

Boykin had a breakout senior season at Notre Dame in 2018, catching 59 passes for 872 yards and 8 touchdowns. He was then selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. However, Boykin struggled with injuries during his time in the NFL, including a hamstring injury that ended his tenure with the Ravens. He later had brief stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks, and Chicago Bears, but never found consistent playing time due to his injury history.

  • Boykin played for the Notre Dame football team from 2015 to 2018.
  • He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2019.
  • Boykin spent three seasons with the Ravens from 2019 to 2021.
  • He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022 and 2023.
  • Boykin was on the practice squads of the New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks, and Chicago Bears from 2024 to 2025.

The players

Miles Boykin

A former wide receiver for the Notre Dame football team who was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2019 and spent five years in the NFL, struggling with injuries throughout his professional career.

Notre Dame Football

The football program at the University of Notre Dame, which has produced numerous NFL talents over the years.

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What they’re saying

“After thanking his teammates and coaches, he said he was excited for the next stage in his life.”

— Miles Boykin (slapthesign.com)

The takeaway

Boykin's retirement serves as a reminder of the challenges that even the most talented college football players can face when transitioning to the professional level, where injuries can derail even the most promising careers. His story highlights the importance of preparing for life after football and the resilience required to overcome setbacks in the pursuit of one's dreams.