Only three weeks after former LSU Tigers star receiver DJ Chark signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons to extend his career, the franchise released the 28-year-old veteran. Chark had debated retiring this offseason, crediting prayer for his decision to give Atlanta the chance to work out.

“I prayed on it,” Chark said. “I think God wanted me here.”

Apparently, He did not, or at least not for long. But that doesn’t mean his gamble was a failure, and Chark could be picked up elsewhere if he continues to fight through roster competition across the league. The former second-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars peaked in 2019 with a Pro Bowl season.

Falcons now have released WR DJ Chark and waived/injury QB Emory Jones. https://t.co/Z8vstayu2r

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 18, 2025

Chark, born on September 23, 1996, in Alexandria, Louisiana, emerged as a dynamic wide receiver known for his speed and big-play ability. Nicknamed “The Flash” during his college days, Chark honed his skills at Alexandria Senior High School, where he excelled in football and track.

He committed to LSU, choosing the Tigers over offers from schools like Memphis, Oklahoma State, and Texas A&M. At LSU from 2014 to 2017, under coaches Les Miles and Ed Orgeron, Chark transitioned from a lightly used underclassman to a versatile offensive weapon, playing in 36 games with 15 starts.

Chark’s LSU career truly blossomed in his junior and senior seasons, showcasing his explosiveness as a deep threat. After minimal involvement in his first two years (no receptions recorded), he broke out in 2016 with 26 receptions for 466 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 17.9 yards per catch.

He added rushing contributions, carrying the ball 12 times for 122 yards and two scores. His senior year in 2017 was his pinnacle, with 40 receptions for 874 yards (21.9 yards per reception) and three touchdowns, plus 12 rushes for 63 yards and one score. Chark’s versatility shone as a punt returner that year, leading the SEC with two punt return touchdowns on 18 returns for 190 yards, averaging 10.6 yards per return. Overall, his college stats included 66 receptions for 1,351 yards (20.5 average) and six receiving touchdowns, 25 rushes for 264 yards (10.6 average) and four rushing scores, and nine total touchdowns from scrimmage.

These numbers highlighted his role in LSU’s offense, often stretching defenses and creating opportunities for teammates. His standout Senior Bowl performance in 2018, where he earned co-MVP honors with five catches for 160 yards and a touchdown, boosted his draft stock.

Drafted by the Jaguars in the second round (61st overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft, Chark entered the pros with high expectations. He spent his first four seasons (2018-2021) with the Jaguars, where he had a breakout 2019 campaign: 73 receptions, 1,008 yards, and eight touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors.

Injuries hampered him in 2021, limiting him to four games due to a fractured ankle. Chark then signed with the Detroit Lions in 2022, recording 30 catches for 502 yards and three scores in 11 games. In 2023, with the Carolina Panthers, he posted 35 receptions for 525 yards and five touchdowns. The 2024 season saw him join the Los Angeles Chargers, but he appeared in only seven games, managing four catches for 31 yards and one touchdown before being placed on injured reserve.

Career NFL stats through 2024 include 76 games (51 starts), 216 receptions, 3,100 yards (14.4 average), and 24 touchdowns, plus two rushes for 20 yards. Chark’s earnings reflect his journeyman status: approximately $23.2 million in career earnings as of 2025, including his rookie contract, a $10 million deal with Detroit, $5 million with Carolina, $2.45 million with the Chargers, and the recent Falcons pact. Despite inconsistencies due to injuries and team changes, Chark’s speed and LSU-honed skills kept him relevant in the league.