Philadelphia Phillies: Dylan Cozens retires to pursue NFL dream
As it turns out, Tim Tebow will not be the only minor league baseball player attempting to make the jump to the NFL. Although Tebow, had spent three years in the league as a quarterback, he has returned after a decade to attempt to play tight end. And now, he will have company with former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Dylan Cozens.
He had been in Triple-A with the Brewers, having signed a minor league deal in the offseason before announcing his retirement and intention of heading to the NFL.
Former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Dylan Cozens pursuing NFL dream
A former second round draft pick, Cozens showed an intriguing blend of power and speed. In 2016, he belted 40 homers and stole 21 bases in Double-A, giving the Phillies hope that he could be a key part of their future in the outfield. Although his batting average fell in Triple-A, he combined to hit 49 homers in 2017 and 2018, earning a call to the majors.
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Despite his promising production in the minors, Cozens was unable to make an impact in the majors. He produced a meager .158/.273/.289 batting line in 44 plate appearances, hitting two doubles and a homer. However, he also struck out 24 times, limiting his ability to make an impact. Cozens would only get one more major league at bat afterwards and seemed likely to finish out his career as a minor league depth piece.
He had hoped to return to the majors with the Brewers, but his performance at Triple-A thus far pushed that dream aside. He had a .177/.343/.329 batting line in 100 plate appearances, hitting four doubles and two homers while drawing 19 walks, but also struck out 43 times. It was time to move on.
Cozens had once been a highly recruited defensive lineman in high school. Presumably, he would attempt to return to the same position, where his 6’6″ frame and quickness could make him an intriguing prospect. However, he would likely need to beef up from his listed 245 pound weight in order to be a viable NFL option.
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Former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Dylan Cozens has announced his retirement and is attempting to join the NFL. We wish him the best of luck in his journey.