Report: Former Wolverine announces NFL retirement

Originally posted on Michigan Wolverines on SI
By Matt Lounsberry | Last updated Sep 18, 2024 3:22 PM ET

One of the hardest-hitting players to ever darken the doors at Schembechler Hall is calling it a career after stints with four different NFL franchise.

On Wednesday, a report surfaced that former Michigan fullback Ben Mason was retiring from football after being released by Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers in August, citing knee issues. Mason played for Harbaugh and the Wolverines from 2017-20, appearing in 32 career games and earning the program's "Toughest Player" award in 2017.

After being released by Chargers in Aug, Newtown legend Ben Mason will no longer pursue the NFL due to knee issues. His HS resume is unmatched in CT. He excelled at Michigan and did play real NFL snaps. He burst on scene at 15 yo & he never let our state down. GL, buddy. #cthsfb
— David Agostino (@Dave_agger) September 18, 2024

Mason was selected in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens but was released by the organization in fall camp. He then had practice squad stints with the New England Patriots and Chicago Bears, before resigning with the Ravens in Jan. 2022 and made his NFL debut with the franchise in Jan. 2024 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

After Harbaugh left Michigan to make his return to the NFL's coaching ranks, Mason rejoined his former coach when he signed a contract with the Chargers in early April. He was later waived on Aug. 13 in the midst of Los Angeles' training camp.

In four seasons at Michigan, Mason had 37 carries for 87 yards with nine rushing touchdowns. He added three receptions for 32 yards and a receiving touchdown out of the backfield. Mason also made several appearances on special teams and switched to defense for a time in 2019, recording 14 total tackles in his career.

Mason was revered by Harbaugh and his teammates for his fearlessness and willingness to sacrifice his body to land a key block or hit for the Wolverines. He was also notorious for his workout regimen, earning the nickname "Bench" Mason during his time in Ann Arbor.

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