EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Phil Loadholt’s journey as an NFL player has come to a close, but the big man with a bigger heart said he’ll always be able to call Minnesota home.
Loadholt and the Vikings announced the right tackle’s retirement Monday after 89 regular-season games and three postseason starts in seven seasons. The 89 regular-season starts made by Loadholt rank ninth in team history among tackles, the realization of a dream he first had at age 7.
Loadholt lived multiple places during his youth because of his father’s career of service in the Army, so he appreciated the opportunity to be here so long.