Former Seahawks and Vikings QB announces abrupt retirement at 28 after being ‘humbled’

Former Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks quarterback Jaren Hall has announced his retirement from the NFL.

Hall, who entered the league as a fifth-round draft pick in 2023 following an accomplished college career with BYU, noted that his ‘heart is full’ as he closes the football chapter of his life.

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“There’s a lot I could say, but mostly I just feel grateful,” the 28-year-old posted on Instagram Wednesday.

“Sports have been woven into nearly every part of my life — they’ve challenged me, humbled me, shaped my faith, introduced me to lifelong friendships, and given me experiences I never could have imagined.

“From growing up in this community, to representing my hometown, to having the opportunity to play in the NFL, it has all been a blessing.

“What I’ll carry most isn’t the milestones, but the people — teammates, coaches, family, and a community that supported me every step of the way.

“My heart is full as I close this chapter and finish my football career.

“I’m thankful to everyone who’s been part of the journey.

“The game has given me more than I could ever give back.”

Why has Jaren Hall called time on NFL career?

Hall has stepped away from football following a challenging time in the NFL — and following a rookie’s high-profile NFL retirement.

As a fifth-round pick (164th overall) for the Vikings in 2023, he had hopes of being a solid backup option behind starting quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Hall was handed his chance when the veteran went down with a torn Achilles in Week 8, but suffered a concussion in his first start.

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The rookie cleared concussion protocol soon after, but returned only to back up Joshua Dobbs and Nick Mullens.

Hall was then handed a second start against the Green Bay Packers in Week 17, where he completed five of 10 passes for 67 yards and an interception.

He also lost a fumble and was benched at halftime.

Despite an impressive preseason performance against the Philadelphia Eagles in August 2024, with 339 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions, Hall was waived by the Vikings to make room for Brett Rypien.

The Seahawks later signed Hall to their practice squad, and he was promoted to the active roster to be the emergency 3rd QB on four occasions that year, but never saw the field.

Hall was released in April 2025, and in January of this year, signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL).

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However, he was removed from their roster shortly after, and has now announced his retirement.

Jaren Hall had promising college career before landing in NFL

Before being drafted, Hall made 24 starts at BYU between 2019 and 2022 posting a 16-8 record.

He passed for 6,174 yards with 62 total touchdowns across four seasons, and was the first Black starting quarterback in Cougars program history.

A talented two-way athlete, Hall also played for BYU’s baseball team in 2019 and 2020, while he was backup to Zach Wilson, an eventual No. 2 pick.

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Fans, friends and former teammates (both football and baseball) have left hundreds of comments on Hall’s retirement post, wishing him well for the future.

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