What Happened to Brock Osweiler?

By Jason Bolton April 10, 2024 14:45

Brock Osweiler, a former American football quarterback, made headlines when he announced his retirement from the National Football League (NFL) on October 16, 2019.

Over the course of his seven-season career, Osweiler's journey was marked by highs and lows, from being an unsung hero of a Super Bowl-winning team to experiencing the challenges of failing to live up to a substantial second contract.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Osweiler's NFL journey began in 2012 when he was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round. Initially serving as a backup to the legendary Peyton Manning, Osweiler's opportunity to shine came during the 2015 season when Manning experienced a decline in performance.

Taking over for Manning, Osweiler led the Broncos to a 5-2 record in their final seven games, securing the AFC's top seed entering the postseason. Despite his contributions, Osweiler was replaced by Manning for the playoff run, culminating in the Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory.

Contract Controversy and Career Challenges

Following Manning's retirement, Osweiler became a highly sought-after free agent, eventually signing a lucrative four-year, $72 million deal with the Houston Texans.

However, his time in Houston was tumultuous, with a mixed performance in the 2016 season, leading to his departure after just one year.

Subsequent stints with the Cleveland Browns and a return to the Broncos marked a period of instability in Osweiler's career, culminating in his final season as a backup with the Miami Dolphins in 2018.

Despite challenges and criticisms, Osweiler finished his NFL career with a 15-15 record as a starter, 7,418 passing yards, a 59.8% completion percentage, 37 touchdowns, and 31 interceptions.

Retirement and Life After Football

On October 16, 2019, Osweiler officially announced his retirement from the NFL, signaling the end of his professional football career.

Following his retirement, Osweiler transitioned into a broadcasting career, joining ESPN in 2022 as a college football analyst.

His post-football life has also centered around family, as he has been seen enjoying quality time with his daughter and wife, embracing the joys of fatherhood and domestic life.

Despite the challenges and criticisms he faced during his football career, Osweiler has found peace and contentment in his life after retirement, reflecting on the positives that his football career afforded him, such as relative health and financial stability.

From his early days as a promising young quarterback to the challenges he faced with contracts, criticisms, and transitions between teams, Osweiler's journey exemplifies the unpredictable nature of professional sports.

While his on-field performances may have sparked debates and critiques, Osweiler's resilience and ability to find peace and contentment in life after football serve as a testament to his character.

The story of Brock Osweiler's career is a compelling testament to the highs and lows of professional sports, emphasizing the importance of resilience, family, and finding fulfillment beyond the game.