Saints Veteran Center Retires After 7 NFL Seasons

Will Clapp, a two-time All-SEC selection, is stepping away from the game after a career-ending Lisfranc injury.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 6:49am

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New Orleans Saints veteran offensive lineman Will Clapp, a 30-year-old LSU product, has announced his retirement from the NFL after seven active seasons. Clapp, who was a seventh-round pick in the 2018 draft, played in 66 regular-season games and made 22 starts over his career, totaling 2,555 offensive snaps. A severe Lisfranc injury in 2025 ultimately influenced his decision to step away from the game.

Why it matters

Clapp was a steady presence on the Saints' offensive line, helping to open holes for the team's backfield. His retirement leaves a void that the Saints will need to fill, as they look to maintain their offensive production in the coming seasons.

The details

Clapp, who was a two-time First-team All-SEC selection at LSU, was thrust into a starting role for the Saints in Week 4 of the 2023 season. He even saw playing time in the 2024 postseason with the Buffalo Bills. However, a severe Lisfranc injury in a 2025 preseason matchup against the Chargers required surgery and ultimately led to his decision to retire while still in the prime of his athletic life.

  • Clapp was drafted by the Saints in the 7th round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
  • Clapp played 66 regular-season games and made 22 starts over his 7-year NFL career.
  • Clapp suffered a severe Lisfranc injury in a 2025 preseason game against the Chargers.

The players

Will Clapp

A 30-year-old veteran offensive lineman who spent his entire 7-year NFL career with the New Orleans Saints.

New Orleans Saints

The NFL team that Clapp played for throughout his career.

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What they’re saying

“From the first to the last and all the ones in between, thank you for being my rock! Grateful for an amazing career and excited for our next chapter!”

— Will Clapp (Instagram)

What’s next

There are reports that Clapp may look to transition into a coaching role with the Saints, allowing him to remain involved with the team and share his expertise with the next generation of players.

The takeaway

Clapp's retirement is a significant loss for the Saints, as he was a steady presence on their offensive line for seven seasons. However, his career-ending injury and decision to step away from the game at age 30 highlights the physical toll that playing in the NFL can take on players. The Saints will now need to find a way to replace Clapp's production and leadership on the offensive line.