Squirrel White’s NFL journey has come to an abrupt end—just 16 days after it began. The Chicago Bears wide receiver, signed as an undrafted free agent on April 25, was placed on the team’s reserve/retired list on May 11, officially closing the chapter on a pro career that barely had time to take flight.

As of now, the reason behind White’s sudden retirement remains unclear. The only clue comes from ESPN Bears reporter Courtney Cronin, who noted that White left the practice field during rookie minicamp on May 9. According to Cronin, the rookie receiver walked off with a trainer while the team was still stretching and did not return for the remainder of practice. Whether this was due to injury, personal reasons, or another factor has not been disclosed.

White’s path to the NFL was anything but conventional. He began his college career at Tennessee in 2022, where he quickly made a name for himself as a reliable target. Over 38 games with the Volunteers, he hauled in 131 receptions for 1,665 yards and six touchdowns—a stat line that showcased his speed and playmaking ability. After three seasons in Knoxville, he transferred to Florida State for the 2025 season, but his production dipped significantly. In 10 games with the Seminoles, White managed just five catches for 52 yards, a far cry from his earlier college success.

Despite the underwhelming senior season, the Bears saw enough potential to bring him in as a UDFA. But now, with his retirement, Chicago loses a depth option at wide receiver, and White walks away from the game before ever suiting up for a regular-season snap.

For fans and fantasy players alike, White’s story serves as a reminder of how unpredictable the NFL can be—where a career can end as quickly as it starts.