James White Retires After 9 NFL Seasons; Won 3 Super Bowls with Patriots

White, a running back for New England, retired from the National Football League.

James White @SweetFeet_White

New England will be in my heart forever. Thank you for unwavering support over the years. I am forever grateful.

This chapter has been one that I will cherish. I look forward to what is next. pic.twitter.com/8qd0FbA0tW

White missed most of the season due to a hip injury and was trying to make a comeback. At the start of camp, he was put on the physically unable to perform list and had no timetable for his return.

White spent his entire career with the Pats as a third-downspecialist. He added 381 catches and was a good check-down target for Tom Brady. The best season of his career came in the year of the Super Bowl, when he scored 12 touchdown in the process.

White was a part of the New England team that won three titles.

"James defines the term 'consummate professional'" said head coach Bill Belichick. His performance under pressure is elite. James was a perfect fit for the pass offense. He brought a lot of leadership to the team. One of the best team players I've ever coached was a multi-year team captain.

White was hoping to be able to resume his third-down duties this season, but the depth chart was led by Harris and Stevenson. The most likely candidates to be the primary pass catcher out of the backfield are rookies Pierre Strong Jr. and Ty Montgomery.