GLENDALE – Arizona Cardinals fans got closure with the departure of legendary franchise cornerback Patrick Peterson on Monday. The 13-year NFL defensive back called it a career, spending 10 in the Valley. Peterson earned eight Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pros with the Cardinals before a bad breakup in the 2021 offseason ended their relationship, where he went to Minnesota. Peterson spent three years away from Ariz0na, a place that helped him become a Hall of Fame player. So, when the 34-year-old decided to retire, the decision to return to the franchise on a one-day contract was easy.
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Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) gives a thumbs up before playing against the Oakland Raiders on Nov. 18, 2018, at State Farm Stadium. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Peterson on why he retired with Cardinals:
“It was a no-brainer,” Peterson said. “You know, there was a lot of things said and, you know, it wasn’t the greatest departure, but at the end of the day this is where my legacy is — this is where my legacy started. Me and (Cardinals owner) Mr. (Michael) Bidwill had an opportunity to have conversations leading up to this and, like I said, it was a no-brainer because being able to achieve some of the things that I achieved as an Arizona Cardinal, only so many people had the opportunity to do that, like going to eight straight Pro Bowls, a three-time All-Pro one time as a specialist — being named to the 2010 All-Decade team. So, my career is here. It lives here. So, like I said, it was a no-brainer for me to come back here and retire a Cardinal where it all started.”
Former Cardinals star cornerback Patrick Peterson and family pose with a Cardinals jersey after announcing that he is retiring an Arizona Cardinals player during a news conference at the Cardinals’ Tempe facility on April 14, 2025. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Peterson still loves the game of football, detailing that he believes he can still be out on the field right now. However, the passion to endure a grueling full season has made him not want to play. He wants to enjoy time with his family and friends and experience the world.
The celebratory press conference had fans, media, and former players appearing to show support for Peterson.
Cardinals legends coming to support Peterson:
The NFL is a “young man’s game,” according to Peterson. After not being picked up by a team last offseason, Peterson knew his time was close to over, and the realization proved to himself that he has “no regrets.”
Arizona Cardinals president Michael Bidwill with former Cardinals star cornerback Patrick Peterson during his retirement news conference at Cardinals Tempe facility April 14,2025 Syndication: Arizona Republic
Despite his professional football career being over, the next chapter of Peterson’s life is just beginning. The father of two will be able to watch his children grow up in real-time. Peterson has left an impact on and off the field, which will have him rewarded in the franchise’s Ring of Honor, likely being the 20th induction. His luxurious career might have earned Peterson a destiny with Canton and could be the 24th Arizona player in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
