The 29-year-old pass-rusher announced his retirement on Monday, catching many off guard. However, his reason for stepping away at a young age—before injuries forced the decision—is admirable.
“After six years in the NFL, I am officially medically retiring,” Cominsky shared on Instagram. “I’m proud of my career, but the accumulation of injuries has outweighed my desire to continue playing.”
” Thank you to the Atlanta Falcons for believing in me and drafting an overlooked DII prospect. Thank you to the Detroit Lions for claiming me off waivers, offering a second contract, and giving me the chance to prove myself as an NFL starter.”
“Thanks to the front offices and coaches who supported and believed in me. Who would have thought a small-town Barberton, Ohio QB would end up sacking NFL quarterbacks?”
Cominsky played a key role on Detroit’s defensive line in 2022 and 2023, recording 73 pressures, 52 hurries, and 15 QB hits, according to Pro Football Focus. Unfortunately, a torn MCL sidelined him for the entire 2024 season.
His Instagram comments section was filled with support from Lions fans and former teammates, with quarterback Jared Goff among the first to send well wishes.
“Congrats on the great career, brother,” Goff wrote.
Cominsky joined the Lions one year after Goff arrived via trade from the Los Angeles Rams.
During Goff’s career-reviving season (4,438 yards, 29 touchdowns, seven interceptions), Cominsky also had a breakout year (14 games, 30 tackles, four sacks, three passes defensed).
A fourth-round pick in the 2019 draft, Cominsky played five NFL seasons—three with the Falcons and two with the Lions. Over 57 career games, he totaled 107 tackles, 7.5 sacks, six passes defensed, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.
