Houston, TX . A former Houston Texans defensive back has officially announced his retirement from the NFL, bringing an eight season professional career to an unexpected close following a serious off field accident.

The decision was confirmed on social media this week, ending months of uncertainty after the veteran hinted earlier in the offseason that his playing days might be nearing an end.

According to sources close to the situation, Desmond King II suffered a significant fall down a staircase from the second floor, resulting in injuries that impacted his ability to train, recover, and prepare at an NFL level.

After medical evaluations and careful consideration of long term health concerns, King chose to step away from football rather than attempt another comeback.

King spent a meaningful portion of his career with the

Houston Texans, where he served as a starting slot cornerback across multiple seasons and became a steady presence in the secondary.

Despite being released twice during his time in Houston, King fought his way back onto the roster and ultimately played a key role, including starting during the Texans’ playoff victory over the Cleveland Browns.

Earlier in his career, King was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, where he enjoyed his most consistent stretch of play and established himself league wide.

He also had a brief stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, appearing in just one snap over five weeks, before finishing his NFL journey with the Baltimore Ravens.

Now officially retired at 30 years old, Desmond King II closes his career remembered as a resilient slot corner who battled roster turnover, injuries, and adversity across eight demanding NFL seasons.