Nassib is also the founder of Rayze, an app that connects users to nonprofit groups and volunteer opportunities
Carl Nassib, the first openly gay player to compete in a regular-season NFL game, announced his retirement from football on Wednesday. The 30-year-old edge rusher, who made history in 2021 by coming out while playing for the Las Vegas Raiders, shared his decision after spending his final season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Nassib’s retirement marks the end of a seven-year NFL career in which he participated in over 100 games.
In an emotional post on Instagram, Nassib explained that he was retiring to focus on his company, Rayze, which connects users to nonprofit groups and volunteer opportunities. Nassib expressed mixed emotions about stepping away from football, acknowledging the end of a chapter while looking forward to his future endeavors. “This is a bittersweet moment for me, but after seven seasons and just over 100 NFL games, I am officially retiring from football,” he wrote.
Nassib’s announcement was widely celebrated, not only for his football career but also for his groundbreaking role as an openly gay athlete in a sport long known for its traditional views on masculinity. His decision to come out in 2021 was a pivotal moment in the NFL, sparking conversations about inclusivity and acceptance within professional sports. Nassib’s openness helped pave the way for other LGBTQ+ athletes, particularly in the NFL, to feel more comfortable being themselves.
During his time with the Raiders and later with the Buccaneers, Nassib became a trailblazer. He didn’t just make headlines for his groundbreaking status but also for his contributions on the field. Known for his leadership and defensive skills, Nassib earned a reputation as a strong and dedicated player. He made his mark with a memorable 2020 season, where he recorded a career-high 6.5 sacks for the Raiders.
Outside of football, Nassib has continued to make a positive impact, especially with his involvement in Rayze. The app, which he founded, aims to connect people to organizations that need volunteers, fostering a culture of giving back. Through his company, Nassib has been able to combine his platform as a professional athlete with his passion for helping others, making a difference beyond the football field.
Nassib’s retirement marks a new chapter in his life, where he hopes to focus on expanding his entrepreneurial ventures while still being involved in causes close to his heart. His legacy as a pioneering LGBTQ+ figure in the NFL will undoubtedly have a lasting impact, helping to inspire future generations of athletes to be true to themselves and embrace their identities without fear of judgment.
Despite stepping away from the sport, Nassib’s influence on and off the field will continue to resonate. As he transitions into this next phase of his life, his retirement reflects the broader cultural shift within sports towards inclusivity and acceptance for all athletes, regardless of their sexual orientation. Nassib’s courage to live openly and his continued efforts to use his platform for good will serve as an enduring inspiration for many.
