Former Panthers TE Greg Olsen retires, set to enter broadcasting role

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WMBF) - A former Carolina Panthers great has called it a career.

Greg Olsen announced his retirement on Fox during the network’s pregame coverage of the NFC Championship Game on Sunday. He also announced he’ll be joining Fox full-time in a broadcasting role beginning next season.

“Sometimes when it’s time, it’s time,” he said. “I’m stepping away, I’m done. I’ve got it all out of my system.”

Olsen was originally drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2007 but was traded to the Panthers in 2011. He played in Carolina for nearly a decade and shattered franchise records, including most receiving yards, receptions as well as 100-yard receiving games by a tight end.

He also was named to three Pro Bowls and was a second-team AP All-Pro twice.

Olsen also became the first tight end in NFL history to records three straight 1,000-yard seasons from 2014-2016. He ends his career as the fifth-ranked tight end in receptions and receiving yards in the Super Bowl era. He also ranks in the top 10 in touchdowns.

Carolina released Olsen last year and he later signed with the Seattle Seahawks, where he caught 24 passes for 239 yards and a lone touchdown in the 2020 season.

In a statement, the Panthers also highlighted Olsen’s role in the Charlotte community through the Greg Olsen Foundation, which provides resources to families affected by cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Olsen was also a two-time finalist for the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award through his work with Atrium Children’s Hospital to raise money and provide support for children with congenital heart diseases.