Total Pro Sports
Most guys his age are just entering their prime. But Khalil Davis? He’s walking away.
At just 28, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive lineman and Super Bowl champion is calling it off. On Monday morning, Davis’ agent, Deiric Jackson of Legacy Sports Advisors, confirmed the news that left fans and former teammates stunned.
Davis, once a standout at Nebraska, spent five seasons bouncing around the NFL, but not without impact. He wore several jerseys. He had a Super Bowl win. And now, he’s stepping away on his own terms.
The Bucs drafted Davis in 2020 with the 194th overall pick. He didn’t light up the stat sheet during his rookie year, but he earned a Super Bowl ring with Tom Brady and the crew. That moment alone would’ve been enough for some, not for Davis.
Tampa Bay let him go in his second season. Indianapolis signed him, but that didn’t last long. By 2022, he found his way back to the Bucs before short stops with the Rams and eventually the USFL’s Birmingham Stallions.
Free agent DT Khalil Davis has decided to retire, per his agent @djackson_legacy.
Davis, 28, a draft pick by the Bucs in 2020, recently played for the Texans and 49ers, who traded for him at last year’s deadline. He has 46 tackles (10 for loss) and three sacks. pic.twitter.com/hskuGEMDax
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) July 21, 2025
Then came a twist. After dominating in the USFL, Davis landed with the Houston Texans in 2023. That’s where he hit his stride. He looked strong. He looked confident. His tape showed quickness, power, and hunger. He made tackles and QB hits like he was chasing something big. That success landed him with the San Francisco 49ers in a trade.
Turns out, that was the final stop.
In the NFL, Davis totaled 46 tackles, three sacks, 10 quarterback hits, and one forced fumble. His college numbers were even more impressive, 105 tackles and 13 sacks at Nebraska, including a good 2019 campaign that turned NFL scouts into believers.
Davis never became a regular name, but his journey told a different story. One of persistence. Of resilience. Of making the most of every shot.
No official reason for his early retirement has yet been shared, but Davis leaves the game having lived out the dream so many chase. From Cornhusker star to Super Bowl champ, he did it all, even if it ended sooner than expected.
Whatever’s next for Khalil Davis. He left a mark.
Also Read: Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Chris Godwin Is Officially Changing His Name
