Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ defensive back Javien Elliott has retired from professional football, 3DownNation has confirmed.
The 30-year-old made the announcement on Thursday via his Instagram account, posting a highlight tape along with the caption:
“Man, what a time to be alive. Thought about coming back this season but decided not to and if you’re reading this it’s too late. Loved the views from the 6 but nothing was the same and for all the dogs I met up there, more life.
Was a pleasure and will always be thankful.
Take Care,
From Florida with Love, 7.”
Elliott played 14 games for the Ticats in 2023, recording 32 defensive tackles and three interceptions. He was due to make $95,300 in hard money for the 2024 season along with $3,000 in marketing and an additional $19,400 in playtime plus performance incentives.
The Panama City, Fla. native began his CFL career with the Calgary Stampeders in 2021, playing five games over two seasons and registering 12 defensive tackles.
Elliott was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent coming out of Florida State University in 2016, playing 36 games over three seasons with the team. The five-foot-10, 185-pound defender made seven starts, amassed 39 total tackles, four tackles for loss, one interception and two passes defended.
He signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2019 and played 16 games, registering 38 total tackles, one tackle for loss, one interception and one pass breakup before making his way to Canada. Elliott earned over $2.2 million USD while playing in the NFL.
The Ticats open the 2024 regular season by visiting the Calgary Stampeders at McMahon Stadium on Friday, June 7.
