Haloti Ngata was one of the most dominant defensive linemen of his era. He struck fear in opposing offenses when he lined up opposite them.

Lions DL Haloti Ngata, 35, Retires In Style

The talent of the Oregon product was so clear that the Baltimore Ravens used a first-round pick on a defensive lineman for the first time in franchise history. He wasn’t any less of a spectacle when announcing his retirement.

The 35-year-old scaled to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. At the top, he unfurled a banner that read, “I’m retiring from the NFL on top.” He then posted a video of himself breaking the news to Instagram.

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On Instagram, he wrote: “Just a man standing on top of the world with a heart full of gratitude. Thank you Lord for letting me play the game I love for 13 unforgettable years. I’m retiring on top. I might be finished playing football, but I’m holding tight to the friendships, memories and wisdom I’ve gained along the way. “Nobody who ever gave his best regretted it.” Walking away with no regrets, just peace in knowing I gave it my all and had a helluva lot of fun doing it. ?? #kissestotheskyformomanddad @ravens @detroitlionsnfl @philadelphiaeagles”

Ngata was a five-time Pro Bowler in his career and won a Super Bowl with the Ravens in 2013. Over the past 13 seasons, Ngata was the only defensive tackle to record over 500 tackles, 30 sack, and four interceptions.

He’ll be remembered alongside Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed and Ray Lewis as the defenders that were the reason why Baltimore ranked in the top five in run defense in seven of his nine seasons.

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Bill Piersa

Article by Bill Piersa

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