Best Of Social Media: James White Announces His Retirement

After eight seasons in the NFL, New England Patriots running back James White announced his retirement on Thursday.

Last season, White sustained a serious hip injury in week three that ultimately forced him to call it a career.

White released a lengthy statement on social media thanking his teammates, family, and fans.

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A post shared by James White (@sweetfeet)

A vital contributor on offense during the second half of the Patriots dynasty, White earned three Super Bowl rings during his career, but his most memorable performance came during the Super Bowl LI comeback against the Atlanta Falcons.

In that game, White set a Super Bowl record with 14 receptions for 110 yards and added three touchdowns, one receiving, and two rushing scores plus a two-point conversion.

White finishes his career second among Patriots running backs in receptions (431) and receiving yards (3,255), trailing just Kevin Faulk for most all-time in each category. He is the only running back in Patriots history to have three seasons of more than 60 catches and the only back to have two seasons of 70-plus receptions.

Check out all the best tributes and congratulatory messages to White shared across social media below.