Detroit Lions offensive lineman Dan Skipper has announced his decision to walk away from playing football and transition into coaching.

Skipper shared the news Thursday via Instagram, bringing an end to a lengthy playing career that followed the Lions’ 9–8 season.

The veteran tackle, who has had multiple stints with Detroit since first joining the organization as a practice squad player in 2017, reflected on his journey in his post.

“After 24 years of strapping on pads and a helmet every fall, it’s time for a new chapter,” Skipper wrote. “I’m stepping away from playing to begin a career in coaching. The opportunities and memories the NFL has given me — both personally and professionally — are impossible to fully capture in words.”

At 31 years old, Skipper’s most recent tenure with the Lions began in 2023, marking his fourth return to the franchise. Initially signed to the practice squad, he eventually earned a spot on the active roster that season.

That year also placed him at the center of one of the most talked-about moments in Detroit’s season. During a Week 16 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, Skipper caught what appeared to be a game-winning two-point conversion. The play was nullified after officials penalized offensive tackle Taylor Decker for illegal touching, stemming from confusion over which lineman had properly reported as an eligible receiver.

Skipper returned to Detroit on a new deal in 2024 before being released in August 2025. He later rejoined the organization on the practice squad and was elevated to the active roster on Oct. 8.

Now, Skipper is turning the page from his playing days, setting his sights on developing players from the sideline rather than the huddle.