UNC Football: Tar Heel Legend Ryan Switzer Retires from Football

Switzer spent five seasons in the National Football League following a decorated and record-setting career at North Carolina.

After five seasons in the NFL, former North Carolina wide receiver Ryan Switzer announced his retirement on Monday. Switzer cited injuries as the catalyst for cutting his professional career short.

"“Unfortunately, in light of a recent injury, I feel I’m no longer able to meet the physical demands of the game,” said Switzer. “That said, I have decided to retire from the NFL.”"

Switzer was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He spent time with four different organizations, most recently playing for the Cleveland Browns in 2021.

Much like his career in Chapel Hill, Switzer was a staple on special teams. He recorded 1,373 yards as a kick returner, averaging 21.8 yards per return.

Switzer continued his success as a punt returner, scoring one touchdown and amassing 537 yards. As a receiver, Switzer tallied 50 receptions for 321 yards and one touchdown in 41 career games.

Prior to entering the 2017 NFL Draft, Switzer emerged as a star in a Tar Heel uniform.

The Charleston, West Virginia native became the first true freshman in North Carolina history to be named a first-team All-American. In the same season, Switzer tied the single-season FBS record with five punt return touchdowns.

As a two-time All-American, Switzer earned three First-team All-ACC selections and etched his name in the UNC Football record books.

Switzer remains arguably the best receiver in Carolina history, ranking first in both receiving yards (2,907) and receptions (244). The former three-star recruit holds the single-game record for receptions (16) and is ranked fifth in receiving touchdowns (19).

As a punt returner, Switzer continued his dominance after his freshman campaign, recording the most punt returns (99) and punt return yards (1,082) in a Tar Heel uniform.

Switzer finished his career in Chapel Hill with 4,135 all-purpose yards and 26 total touchdowns.

With a playing career in the rearview, Switzer plans to return to the gridiron to pursue coaching.

"“Although my playing days are over, I’m looking forward to using the knowledge and experience I’ve accumulated to help the next generation of players through coaching.”"

We wish Ryan the best in his retirement and look forward to seeing his coaching impact on the younger generation!

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