It’s that time of the year in NFL when players decide to call it quits. The latest one to do so is linebacker James Harrison. Harrison, who played for Pittsburg Steelers and New England Patriots among others, announced his retirement via an Instagram post on Monday.
“I’ve missed way too much for way too long…and I’m done. Many thanks to my family, coaches, the fans, and everyone who played a role in my football life.” – the 39-year-old wrote in the post.
James Harrison spent most of his professional football career with the Steelers before the team released him in December 2017. He then decided to sign with their bitter rivals Patriots and ended up having much bigger role than expected. After joining the Pats, Harrison stated he wants to play two more years but also flirted with the idea of retiring.
“But at some point in time, I’m going to have to stop [playing],” – he said to ESPN in January. “I told my son [James III] he could play contact football when I stop, so I’m going to have to give it up in the near future, so he can start getting adjusted to playing. I don’t want him to wait too long.”
This isn’t the first time James Harrison announces his retirement. After a short stint with the Cincinnati Bengals, he announced his retirement in 2014 and officially retired as the member of the Pittsburg Steelers. After less than two weeks in retirement, Harrison decided to come back and play professionally for the Steelers once again.
During his NFL career, Harrison won two Super Bowls (XL, XLIII), earned five Pro Bowl selections, was named in First-team All-Pro twice and won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2008. He is currently the Steelers’ franchise leader in sacks with 80.5.
