Michael Gallup, a name that once echoed through the stands of AT&T Stadium, has decided to hang up his cleats. Announcing his retirement from the NFL at the tender age of 28, Gallup leaves behind a career marked by both high-flying achievements and stinging setbacks.
Gallup’s retirement was officially confirmed when the Las Vegas Raiders placed him on the reserve/retired list on Tuesday. His tenure with the Raiders was short-lived; he joined the team this offseason with a one-year contract worth up to $3 million, signed in May. Unfortunately, his time with the Raiders concluded without a single regular-season snap.
A Promising Start
Drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, Gallup quickly made a name for himself in the league. His most impressive season came in 2019 when he dazzled fans and critics alike by recording 1,107 receiving yards and six touchdowns, averaging an impressive 16.8 yards per catch. That season cemented Gallup as a core component of the Cowboys' receiving corps.
Consistent Contributor
Throughout his time with the Cowboys, Gallup displayed a remarkable level of consistency. In total, he started 67 out of 86 games, logging 266 catches for 3,744 yards and 21 touchdowns, with an average of 14.1 yards per catch. These statistics underscore his role as a reliable and explosive option in Dallas' offense.
Time and Trials
Despite his achievements, Gallup's journey was not without hurdles. A significant ACL injury tested his resilience and ability to bounce back. Post-injury, he managed to collect 73 catches for 822 yards and six touchdowns in 31 games, demonstrating his determination to perform despite physical setbacks.
Challenges with the Cowboys
In March, the Cowboys made the surprising decision to release Gallup, despite having three years and $45.55 million remaining on his contract. This move shocked many, considering his past contributions and potential for future impact. In his last three seasons with Dallas, Gallup recorded 108 catches for 1,287 yards and eight touchdowns – solid figures that reflected his ongoing value to the team.
The Final Chapter
Gallup's brief stint with the Raiders brought hope for a fresh start. Unfortunately, his promising new chapter as part of the Las Vegas franchise was cut short. While the Raiders' roster faced several setbacks, with players such as LB Darien Butler, G Jake Johanning, G Jackson Powers-Johnson, WR Jalen Guyton, and T Kolton Miller being placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, Gallup's presence was still a valued addition.
As Michael Gallup steps away from the game, his legacy as a solid, resilient, and explosive receiver endures. His career numbers reflect the tenacity and talent he brought to the field, leaving fans with memories of spectacular catches and significant contributions to the Cowboys' offense. Though his journey with the Raiders was brief, his impact on the NFL will not be forgotten.
The NFL bids farewell to one of its reliable wide receivers, wishing Michael Gallup the best in his post-football endeavors.