Antonio Cromartie retires after 11 NFL seasons

Cornerback Antonio Cromartie announced his retirement on Monday after 11 NFL seasons.

He made the announcement on Instagram, thanking the Chargers, New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals organizations.He also thanked his wife, Terricka, writing that he will hold on to her words -- "football is your platform Antonio; it's not your purpose" -- as he begins his post-football pursuits.

Cromartie, 33, didn't play last season after being released by the Indianapolis Colts on Oct. 4, 2016.

Cromartie was one of the NFL's best cover cornerbacks for much of his career, making four Pro Bowls. He also scored the longest touchdown in league history, returning a missed field goal by Minnesota for a 109-yard score in 2007.

Cromartie spent his first four seasons with the Chargers, making the playoffs each year. He then joined the Jets and reached the AFC Championship Game with them in 2010, his first of four straight seasons as a starter in Rex Ryan's defense.

He spent 2014 with Arizona and returned to the Jets in 2015. He finished his career with31 interceptions, 120 passes defended, 2 forced fumbles and 420 tackles.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.