Former UNC standout quarterback Darian Durant announced his retirement from the Canadian Football League on Friday, after 12 highly-successful seasons.

A four-year starter for the Tar Heels from 2001-2004, Durant would go on to make three appearances in the Grey Cup–the CFL’s version of the Super Bowl–while leading the Saskatchewan Rough Riders, winning the title in 2013.

Later in his career, he moved on to play for the Montreal Alouettes. At the time of his retirement Friday, Durant was the projected backup quarterback on the roster for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Durant posted totals of 31,740 passing yards and 167 touchdowns in 174 CFL games (128 starts) across 12 seasons. His passing yardage total ranks 14th all-time in the CFL record book.

He announced his retirement on his official website.

“To CFL, my former teammates, coaches, and to all the guys I’ve battled against over the past 12 years: I just want to say thank you,” Durant wrote on his website. “Thank you for helping me develop into the man I am today. So many life lessons have been learnt throughout this football journey. With that being said, I have decided to retire from football.

“I have some opportunities away from the field that will allow me to transition smoothly into the next stage of my life,” he added. “I also became a father earlier this year and I being able to see my daughter grow up day-by-day has played a big part in this decision.”

 

 

Photo via Mark Taylor (Associated Press)

Related Stories
‹
The Morning News: UNC Shooting Verdict, Chapel Hill Restaurant Fire, UNC Football
In today's news: the man accused of murder in a 2023 on-campus shooting is acquitted by reason of insanity.
UNC Football Rues Missed Opportunities, Looks Forward After Loss at Clemson
UNC has only itself to blame after letting a golden opportunity to finally beat Clemson wash away in a soggy Death Valley.
Art's Angle: Collapse
UNC football spoiled a chance to define its early success this season and instead faces a tough road ahead after their late-game collapse.
UNC Football Loses Late Lead After Long Weather Delay, Falls at Clemson
UNC led 14-3 after the first quarter at Clemson, but the Tigers steadily clawed their way back and – after a weather delay of more than two hours in the fourth quarter – scored a late go-ahead touchdown to beat the Tar Heels 28-20 in Death Valley Saturday. It’s Clemson’s eighth consecutive win against UNC, […]
Clemson Provides Prime Chance for UNC to Make A Statement...Can Carolina Win? — The Carolina Football Hour (Sept. 19, 2026)
The Hill's Brighton McConnell and Michael Koh preview what could be UNC football's toughest road test of the year: an afternoon showdown at Clemson.
Protect College Sports Act and UNC Football Investigation in the Spotlight – Stroman On Sports (September 18, 2026)
The Hill's Deborah Stroman and Brighton McConnell chat on Friday, September 18 about the Protect College Sports Act and UNC football.
UNC Football at Clemson (2026): How to Watch, Cord-Cutting Options and Kickoff Time
UNC will look to continue its strong start to the 2026 season when it visits Clemson Saturday. The Tar Heels have not won at the Tigers’ Memorial Stadium since 2001 and have lost the last seven meetings regardless of location. If you aren’t making the trip down south with the team, here’s how you can […]
On Air Today: Can the Tar Heels Win in Death Valley?
Voice of the Tar Heels Jones Angell joins Aaron to discuss UNC football's upcoming game at Clemson, a game the Heels believe they can win.
The Morning News: CHCCS Mandarin World Language, UNC Football
In today's news: the Chapel Hill-Carrboro school board votes to dissolve the Mandarin World Language pathway now at Glenwood Elementary.
Opportunity Awaits UNC Football at Clemson. Can the Tar Heels Capitalize?
Against a seemingly vulnerable Clemson team Saturday, UNC has a chance to pick up a narrative-shifting win in Death Valley.
›