Levi Wallace Retires from the NFL at 31

NFL cornerback Levi Wallace has announced his retirement at the age of 31. After an eight-year career, Wallace has decided to hang up his cleats. His journey in professional football began when he signed as an undrafted free agent from Alabama.

Wallace spent the past year with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he was placed on injured reserve and did not play any games for them. His last game action was with the Denver Broncos in 2024. On Instagram, Wallace shared, “Walk-on. Undrafted. 8 years. Retired.”

Buffalo Bills cornerback Levi Wallace reacts to a defensive play against the Atlanta Falcons at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, N.Y. (Rich Barnes/USA Today Sports)

Despite going undrafted, Wallace proved to be a resilient player. At Alabama, he joined Nick Saban’s team as a walk-on in 2014, playing on the scout team during his first two years. His talent eventually earned him a scholarship in 2016. In the 2017 season, he became a crucial starter for the Crimson Tide, contributing significantly during their National Championship-winning campaign.

In 2017, Wallace recorded impressive stats: 48 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, three interceptions, and 15 pass breakups, leading the SEC. He also returned one interception for a touchdown.

After Alabama, Wallace signed with the Buffalo Bills. Despite starting as a free agent, he earned his place in the starting lineup during his rookie season, starting seven games. Throughout his four years with the Bills, Wallace demonstrated consistency, starting every game he played. In this period, he amassed 219 tackles and six interceptions.

Post-Buffalo, Wallace joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, starting 18 out of 31 games over two seasons. He maintained his reputation as a reliable player, intercepting six passes during his time with the Steelers.

In his final NFL season with the Denver Broncos, Wallace started in two out of 13 games and made 28 tackles.

Across his career, Wallace participated in 96 games, recording 333 tackles, 56 pass deflections, and 12 interceptions. His journey from walk-on status at Alabama to a staple in the NFL exemplifies resilience and determination.