Former Kansas City Chiefs OL announces retirement after 9 NFL seasons

The Kansas City Chiefs have had many significant contributors come through the organization to help in their Super Bowl journeys. Not all free-agent signings pan out, while others become key pieces in the franchise reaching its ultimate goal. Former Chiefs Super Bowl-winning offensive tackle Donovan Smith recently announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons on Instagram .

"When I first started out this journey in 7th grade, I didn't know what the other side would hold," Smith wrote. "With dedication, self-awareness, hard work, perseverance, sacrifice, treating people with kindness and respect, and capitalizing on the opportunities presented to me, I was able to gain more from the game than I could imagine. "Football has made me feel and experience every emotion imaginable," wrote Smith, "It has blessed me with a college degree and the abilities and resources to provide for my family and more.

" Thank you to all that has helped me through the years along my football career. It has allowed me to grow and experience life in ways I can't put into words. I am forever grateful to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for the many blessings in my life and look forward to the new doors that will be opened for me on the other side of retirement.

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