One of the premier cornerbacks of the 2010s, Patrick Peterson, is calling time on his NFL career. According to ESPN, the 34-year-old will officially announce his retirement on Monday with the team that drafted him, the Arizona Cardinals.
Peterson, selected fifth overall in the 2011 NFL Draft out of LSU, spent the first 10 seasons of his career in Arizona. During that time, he developed into one of the league’s elite lockdown corners. He made an immediate impact, earning eight straight Pro Bowl selections from 2011 to 2018 and three first-team All-Pro honors in his first five seasons.
With 28 interceptions during his time with the Cardinals, Peterson ranks sixth in franchise history. His 91 passes defended are second only to Adrian Wilson. But his influence wasn’t limited to defense—Peterson also made waves as a punt returner. He led the league with 699 punt return yards and four touchdowns as a rookie in 2011, including a memorable 99-yard return in overtime to defeat the St. Louis Rams.
Known for his athletic versatility, Peterson even played some snaps as a wide receiver early in his career, catching 10 passes for 64 yards. That stat ties him for third-most receptions among players with at least 10 career interceptions since the 1970 merger—trailing only Deion Sanders and Dwight Harrison.
After leaving Arizona in 2021, Peterson played two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, recording six interceptions and 20 passes defended in 30 games. He spent the 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, tallying 42 tackles, 11 passes defended, and two interceptions over 17 games.
Peterson’s career total of 36 interceptions ranks tied for third-most among all players since 2011. Known for his consistency, skill, and playmaking ability, he leaves behind a legacy as one of the top cornerbacks of his generation. With eight Pro Bowls, three All-Pro selections, and standout performances in all phases of the game, his next stop may very well be the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton.
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