The Miami Dolphins received difficult news this week when team captain and offensive line anchor Terron Armstead officially announced his retirement from the NFL.
While the team had anticipated this possibility, the confirmation still dealt a blow, particularly for an organization seeking veteran leadership on their offensive line to protect franchise quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Armstead, who earned five Pro Bowl selections throughout his career and established himself as a respected locker room presence, provided clear reasoning behind his decision to step away from the game.
After pushing through one final season despite physical limitations, he recognized it was time to conclude his playing career.
Recently, former quarterback Drew Brees shared his perspective on Armstead’s retirement.
“Twelve amazing years in the NFL. The mainstay wherever he went,” Brees said. “I will never forget the day he showed up in our locker room back in 2013, he didn’t start off that year as the starter, but it became evident very clearly that this guy was not only going to be a starting left tackle for us for a very long time, but he was going to be a leader in our locker room, he was going to be a leader in the huddle, and he was going to be a leader throughout the league. He’s exemplified what it takes to be a champion in this league and in in the locker room and with his teams for a long time.”
Wholesome: The legendary Drew Brees pays tribute to Terron Armstead and emphasizes how much he was a leader for the Saints.
Armstead will be missed ❤️👏
(h/t @nick_underhill)
pic.twitter.com/I4gAo8mXV6 https://t.co/UUhIdACJ93
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) April 6, 2025
In Brees’ view, true leadership centers on elevating teammates, bringing out their best qualities, and building their confidence.
Exceptional leaders inspire others to exceed their perceived limitations, fostering belief in their abilities even during moments of self-doubt.
Armstead’s leadership credentials were unquestionable.
His teammates selected him as captain every year from 2018 through 2021 during his time with the New Orleans Saints.
When he joined the Dolphins in 2022, this leadership role continued seamlessly as he wore the captain’s patch throughout the final three years of his NFL journey.
This consistent recognition across two separate organizations demonstrates the profound respect Armstead commanded among teammates throughout his career.
