Anquan Boldin: Announces retirement from football

Boldin announced his retirement from the NFL on Sunday, Jim Trotter of ESPN reports.

While it isn't clear why Boldin is calling it quits just two weeks after signing a one-year contract with the Bills, the gritty veteran has plenty to hang his hat on as he looks back on a 14-year career, one that started with the Cardinals selecting him in the second round of the 2003 draft. Boldin immediately exploded onto the scene -- catching 10 passes for 217 yards in his first game -- and ultimately finished as the Offensive Rookie of the Year. Then, after earning three Pro Bowl nods along the way, Boldin won a Super Bowl title with the Ravens before separate, less celebrated stints with the 49ers and Lions. He'll retire ninth all time in receptions (1,076), 14th in receiving yards (13,779) and tied for 23rd in receiving touchdowns (82). As for the Bills, Boldin's departure leaves the team with even more uncertainty at receiver. Second-round rookie Zay Jones is probably the favorite to claim the starting role opposite Jordan Matthews, but former Raiders Andre Holmes and Rod Streater (toe) could make a bid as well.