At only 26 years old, former Tennessee Titans’ quarterback Jake Locker has announced his retirement from the NFL.
Jake Locker: “I’m retiring from football after much reflection and discussion with my family.Always grateful for having had the opportunity”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 10, 2015
The announcement of Locker’s retirement comes along with several other shocking news items breaking since free agency kicked off earlier on Tuesday.
Locker, who is a former first-round pick of the Titans in 2011, departs the NFL after four seasons where he participated in only 30 of 64 games.
Here is a statement released by Locker.
I am retiring from football after much reflection and discussion with my family. I will always be grateful for having had the opportunity to realize my childhood dream of playing in the NFL and for the lifelong relationships I developed because of that experience.
Football has always played a pivotal role in my life and I love the game, but I no longer have the burning desire necessary to play the game for a living; to continue to do so would be unfair to the next organization with whom I would eventually sign. I realize this decision is surprising to many, but I know in my heart that it is the right decision and I look forward to spending more time with my family and pursuing other interests.
Locker ends his NFL career after throwing for 4,967 passing yards, 27 touchdowns and 22 interceptions. While it is sad to see someone so young call it quits, Locker must have his reasons.
We can never fault someone for walking away from the game early, especially if injuries are taken into account.
Photo: USA Today