The New Orleans Saints have experienced an unusual week of training camp, marked by an unexpected series of player retirements through no fault of the team.Tight end Dallin Holker has officially stepped away from football, as revealed in a recent social media post. Holker appeared in 12 games for the Saints during his rookie season, recording three catches for 21 yards. He joined New Orleans as an undrafted free agent after the 2024 NFL Draft.
Holker was projected to be a depth piece this season, competing for a roster spot. Now, veteran TE Jack Stoll may have an advantage in grabbing a roster spot entering the season.
I can’t thank God enough for the opportunity to live out my dream. I’m incredibly grateful for my amazing wife and family — your love and support have meant everything throughout this journey.
After a lot of prayer and conversations with my family and representatives, l’ve decided to retire from football.
I want to thank the New Orleans Saints, Colorado State, BYU, and Lehi High School for believing in me and giving me the chance to chase a dream l’ve had since I was a kid.
Over the past 15 years, football has given me unforgettable memories and lifelong relationships with teammates and coaches – things l’ll always hold close.
Football will always be a part of me, but I’m excited to see what this next chapter holds.
This is an odd happening for New Orleans. Retirements around this time in the offseason are a norm. Three players (current or former albeit) all announcing within twelve hours of each other is not a norm. For the Saints, that was their reality on Wednesday.
Reports of Jimmy Graham’s planned retirement surfaced in the late morning. Tyrann Mathieu announced his retirement in the afternoon. Holker topped off the news with his announcement in the evening. These few join quarterback Derek Carr and offensive tackle Ryan Ramczyk in retirement this offseason.
#Saints player retirements this offseason:
– Tyrann Mathieu
– Derek Carr
– Ryan Ramczyk
– Jimmy Graham https://t.co/YkJ2nuOD1a pic.twitter.com/9fftzYJwsm— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) July 22, 2025
For the Saints and their fans it’s been an emotional start to training camp for multiple reasons now.
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