Detroit Lions offensive tackle and former Arkansas Razorback Dan Skipper announced his retirement from the NFL on Thursday, officially closing the book on a football journey that spanned more than two decades from when he was a child till now.
Dan Skipper: From Lions’ Offensive Line to the Headset
Skipper, who entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of Arkansas in the 2017 NFL Draft, shared the news in a post on Instagram, calling it a career after playing the game he’s loved since childhood.
Over the years, Skipper became something of a cult favorite among Lions fans. Though he was never a full-time starter, he carved out a valuable role in Detroit through perseverance and versatility. Since entering the league, Skipper spent multiple stints on and off the Lions’ roster, earning a reputation as a reliable depth option along the offensive line.
In total, Skipper appeared in 69 career games and made 16 starts. Often the first offensive tackle off the bench, he also found a niche in recent seasons as a jumbo-package tight end, using his massive frame to help in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
At 6-foot-9 and 330 pounds, Skipper was one of the most physically imposing players on the field. Even now, he looks every bit like someone who could still suit up on Sundays. However, lingering back issues reportedly played a role in his decision, making retirement feel like the right move at the right time.
While one chapter closes, another is already beginning to take shape.
Skipper has expressed interest in remaining involved in the game through coaching. Though he did not specify what level he hopes to coach at, or whether any opportunities have emerged yet, the desire is clear. Football isn’t leaving his life; it’s simply changing roles.
You can take the player out of the game, but you can’t take the game out of the player.
With retirement still fresh and the offseason just beginning, Skipper now has time to step away, recharge, and eventually return to the sport he loves, this time with a headset instead of shoulder pads.
For Lions fans and Razorback supporters alike, Skipper’s NFL career stands as a testament to persistence, adaptability, and earning every opportunity the hard way. And if his next chapter in coaching mirrors the grit of his playing days, it may only be a matter of time before he’s making an impact from the sidelines.