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          Detroit Lions DT John Penisini, 25, retires after two NFL seasons

          • Eric Woodyard, ESPNJun 11, 2022, 01:56 PM
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              Eric Woodyard covers the Detroit Lions for ESPN. He joined ESPN in September 2019 as an NBA reporter dedicated to the Midwest region before switching to his current role in April 2021. The Flint, Mich. native is a graduate of Western Michigan University and has authored/co-authored three books: "Wasted, Ethan's Talent Search" and "All In: The Kelvin Torbert Story". He is a proud parent of one son, Ethan. You can follow him on Twitter: @E_Woodyard

          DETROIT, Mich. -- Lions defensive lineman John Penisini is retiring after two seasons in the NFL, announcing his decision in an Instagram post Saturday morning.

          "I have made the decision to retire from football," Penisini wrote. "I'm definitely going to miss my teammates and the coaching staff but I'm glad I got to experience it. I'm happy and excited for whatever life has for me."

          Penisini, 25, started in 12 of his 32 career games, registering 49 tackles, four tackles for loss, a sack and a fumble recovery. Detroit selected him in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL draft out of Utah.

          "For my family, friends, teammates, coaches and all the people who supported my dream along the way I appreciate and love you guys," Penisini wrote. "Go Lions #OnePride."