Former 49ers Receiver Emmanuel Sanders Announces Retirement After 12 NFL Seasons
Sep 7, 2022, 3:05 PM | Updated: Sep 8, 2022, 2:29 pm

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - FEBRUARY 02: San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (17) battles with Kansas City Chiefs defensive back Rashad Fenton (27) in game action during the Super Bowl LIV game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers on February 2, 2020 at Hard Rock Stadium, in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
After 12 seasons, Emmanuel Sanders is calling it a career.
The 35-year-old receiver announced his retirement on social media Wednesday, saying the game treated him well.
“I had one hell of a ride. 3 Super Bowl Appearances, multiple pro bowls and a Super Bowl Champion. I gave the game everything I had and it treated me well which is why I’m happy with my decision,” Sanders said in his post.
Sanders is retiring with the team he won his lone Super Bowl ring with, the Denver Broncos. He appeared in two other Super Bowls, one with the team that drafted him in the 3rd round of the 2010 draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Super Bowl XLV and the other with the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV.
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In his career, Sanders played nearly 200 games, caught just over 700 receptions and racked up 9,245 yards. He was traded to the 49ers from Denver after seven games into the 2019 season. During his time in the Bay Area, he recorded 36 receptions for just over 500 yards.
Sanders saw his most successful season during his time in Denver. While there, he recorded three 1,000-yard seasons.
Thanks John. I appreciate you brother. The year I was in San Fran was one or the best years of my life. I love the way you guys are running the organizations. Great energy all around the building. A winning formula for sure! Good luck this season. Looking forward to seeing it. https://t.co/D5wLo9iXIh
— Emmanuel Sanders (@ESanders_10) September 8, 2022