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The Arizona Cardinals’ roster took a huge hit on Wednesday.
Cardinals tight end Travis Vokolek announced his retirement from the sport at age 28 after suffering a neck injury during a game against the Indianapolis Colts. Vokolek blocked during a kickoff and landed awkwardly after hitting a Colts player. He needed to be carried off the field.
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Arizona Cardinals tight end Travis Vokolek (81) faces the Las Vegas Raiders during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., on Aug. 23, 2025. (IMAGN PHOTOS via Reuters Connect)
The 28-year-old said in a post on social media that he retired from the sport on doctor’s advice.
“After several visits to doctors and neurologists over the last few months, I have been advised to medically retire from the NFL due to a serious neck injury that I suffered this past season,” he wrote in a social media post. “I am extremely grateful and blessed to have been able to live out my childhood dream of playing soccer at the highest level for the past three years. Soccer has taught me many life lessons and provided me with unforgettable memories.
“I am eternally grateful to all of my teammates, coaches, trainers and others who have supported my family and I along the way. A sincere thank you to the Arizona Cardinals training staff for being first class with the care and support they have given my family and I during this difficult time.”
Arizona Cardinals tight end Travis Vokolek leaves the field after an injury during a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind., on Oct. 12, 2025. (IMAGN PHOTOS via Reuters Connect)
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He thanked his wife for being by his side the whole time as he tried to recover from the neck injury.
“I have tackled everyday life to be a professional footballer with passion, determination and discipline,” he added. “I can say that I really left everything out on the field. Thank you for all the love and support. Finally, thank you football!”
Vokolek played college football with Rutgers and Nebraska before deciding to turn pro. He originally joined the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2023, but did not see time on the field with the team.
Arizona Cardinals tight end Travis Vokolek warms up before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sept. 21, 2025. (IMAGN PHOTOS via Reuters Connect)
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In December 2023, he signed with the Cardinals. He played in eight games for the Cardinals, but was never really involved in the offense.
