The Cincinnati Bengals have made a series of offseason moves to clear cap space in preparation to pay some of their key players in the coming weeks. On Wednesday, they added another move to that list, announcing the release of defensive end and seven-year NFL veteran Sam Hubbard.

Shortly after the Bengals' announcement, Hubbard revealed his decision to retire from the NFL at just 29 years old.

Hubbard spent his entire career with the Bengals, and his ties to Ohio ran deep. Born and raised in the state, he was a lifelong fan of the team. He built a legendary career at Ohio State , and ultimately found his way to the Bengals, where he spent his entire professional career — a journey that was a dream come true for the Ohio native.

"In my heart, I know that I gave this game, this team, and this city everything that I had. That is why today, with great price. l am announcing that I am moving on from my playing career in the NFL and entering the next chapter of my life."

Hubbard added , "From a draft pick to a starter, a 4x captain, and a guy who made a few plays along the way, we accomplished things that will never be forgotten. Breaking the 31-year playoff win drought, winning an AFC championship, back-to-back AFC North championships, a trip to the Super Bowl, and countless other memories. I woke up every day determined to give the tans something they could be proud of, cheer, and unite behind.

Hubbard was a key part of the Bengals' resurgence, enduring some tough years before the team finally turned the corner and reached the Super Bowl in 2021.

He is also widely known for his iconic play during the 2022 Wild Card round against the Baltimore Ravens . In the fourth quarter, as Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley tried to sneak the ball across the goal line, it was poked loose and ended up in Hubbard's hands.

He then took off and ran the length of the field for a touchdown, sending the crowd into a frenzy. NBC's Mike Tirico famously called the play, exclaiming, "The Cincinnati kid!" as Hubbard sprinted down the field for the game-changing score.

Now, Hubbard looks to the future after a remarkable NFL career, filled with memorable moments throughout his seven years in the league, all spent playing in the Queen City.