In a move that has stunned college football fans and NFL scouts alike, former Florida State receiver Squirrel White has announced his retirement from professional football—just 16 days after signing with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent.
White, who transferred to Florida State from Tennessee for his final collegiate season, brought a dynamic presence to the Seminoles' offense. Over four years in college, he racked up 1,717 receiving yards and six touchdowns, carving out a reputation as a reliable target with big-play potential. But his NFL journey ended almost as quickly as it began.
The Bears officially placed White on the reserve/retired list, according to Sean Hammond of the Chicago Tribune. While no official reason has been given for his sudden departure, White did participate in rookie minicamp over the weekend. However, during Saturday's practice, he was seen leaving the field with the training staff during stretching drills.
White's only notable injury history came during the 2024 season at Tennessee, when he suffered a sprained PCL. Whether that played a role in his decision remains speculation.
For many college football fans, White is perhaps best remembered for a surreal moment during the 2025 season. When Virginia upset No. 8 Florida State, fans stormed the field in celebration—and White, the intended receiver on the game's final play, ended up at the bottom of the pile as the Cavaliers' faithful poured onto the turf. It was a viral moment that captured the chaos and passion of college football.
White's retirement leaves Florida State with six former players currently in the NFL for the 2026 season. That group includes fourth-round draft pick Darrell Jackson Jr., former quarterback Tommy Castellanos (now training as a receiver), along with Jerry Wilson, Mason Arnold, Jacob Rizy, and Roydell Williams.
While White's NFL career may have been the shortest on record for a Seminole, his college journey—from Tennessee to Florida State, from highlight catches to a historic field storm—will not be forgotten. Sometimes the biggest impact comes in the shortest time.