U.P.’s Jake Witt Retires from Football After Being Waived by Colts: A Farewell to the NFL and New Beginnings
Jake Witt, the Upper Peninsula native and NFL offensive tackle, has announced his retirement from football following his release from the Indianapolis Colts. After being drafted in the seventh round in 2023, Witt’s journey in the NFL has come to a close, as he shared the news with heartfelt words on Facebook, reflecting on his time with the Colts and expressing gratitude for the experiences he’s had.
From Bruce Crossing to the NFL: Witt’s Remarkable Journey
Hailing from Bruce Crossing and a standout at Ewen-Trout Creek High School, Witt’s story of rising through the football ranks is nothing short of inspiring. Known for his athletic prowess in both basketball and football, Witt made a name for himself as a versatile and hard-working athlete, eventually transitioning from Michigan Tech’s basketball team to Northern Michigan University’s football team. His size and athleticism helped him make the leap into the NFL, where he lived out the dream of representing the U.P. on one of football’s biggest stages.
Witt’s Emotional Farewell
In his heartfelt Facebook post, Witt announced his decision to retire from football, citing personal reasons and concerns for his long-term health. Witt revealed that after clearing waivers following his release by the Colts, he received multiple offers to join NFL practice squads. However, after much thought, he decided it was time to move forward into a new chapter of his life.
“Last year, I was extremely blessed to be drafted by the Indianapolis Colts,” Witt wrote. “During my 1.5 years with the organization, I made many memories, connections, and lifelong friendships. I’ll forever be grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a prestigious organization.”
Witt went on to express deep appreciation for the Colts’ coaching staff, especially offensive line coaches Tony Sparano Jr. and Chris Watt, as well as head coach Shane Steichen. He also thanked David Thornton, his offensive line teammates, and the Colts’ training staff, who helped him recover from his rookie season injury. These connections, Witt noted, made his NFL experience truly special.
A Yooper’s Pride and Gratitude
In his farewell, Witt took time to acknowledge his roots in the Upper Peninsula, giving thanks to the entire U.P. community, particularly Ontonagon County and his hometown of Bruce Crossing. He expressed pride in being a Yooper representing his region in the NFL, a feat that few athletes from the area have achieved.
“Thank you to the entire Upper Peninsula, the western end, Ontonagon County, for the continued incredible support through every athletic venture along my journey. You all made it special for me, and I was extremely proud to be a Yooper representing the U.P. in the NFL. There’s not a single community that’s better than ours,” Witt wrote. “As Yoopers, we can succeed in any walk of life. I wouldn’t have wanted to say I grew up anywhere else.”
He also extended special thanks to his family and closest friends, including his parents and sister, for their unwavering support throughout his athletic career.
Moving Beyond Football
While Witt’s time in the NFL may have come to an end, his message was filled with optimism about the future. He emphasized that his decision to retire comes with no regrets, and that he’s looking forward to the next chapter of his life.
“I’ve been very blessed to have had an athletic career like this, and there are lots of people to thank for it,” Witt said. “From Bruce Crossing, Ewen-Trout Creek, Ontonagon, to Michigan Tech, to Northern Michigan, to the Indianapolis Colts. It’s been a great chapter of my life, and I’m very excited for the next one! While my NFL career has come to an end, there is no reason to be sad. I’m very happy and extremely grateful for the experiences I had.”
Witt’s announcement comes with a strong sense of contentment and pride, not just in his football accomplishments, but in his ability to represent his community at the highest level. “Bigger things ahead!” he concluded, leaving his supporters in the U.P. confident that his future, much like his past, will continue to be bright.
A Farewell to a U.P. Hero
For many in the Upper Peninsula, Jake Witt is more than just a football player—he’s a local hero who took the dreams of a small town and made them a reality on the NFL stage. As someone who had the chance to play basketball against Witt in high school, I’ve personally witnessed his athletic talent and determination. Like many in the U.P., I’m incredibly proud of what he’s achieved and wish him the best in his future endeavors.
As Witt moves beyond the gridiron, the U.P. community will no doubt continue to support him in whatever path he chooses next. His journey from the courts and fields of the U.P. to the NFL is a testament to the hard work and dedication that define the Yooper spirit. And as Witt embarks on this next chapter, we’ll all be rooting for him, knowing that bigger things are indeed ahead.
