Pittsburgh Steelers veteran defensive end Stephon Tuitt ended his NFL career. He made an announcement via an official statement released by the Steelers.
Tuitt, who turned 29 back in May, spent all of his eight years as a pro in Pittsburgh. He didn’t play in 2021 after taking a break from football due to the death of his brother Richard. The Notre Dame product said this was also one of the main reasons for his retirement.
“I want to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown both on and off the field, and again want to thank The Rooney Family, Coach Tomlin, and the entire Pittsburgh organization,” he added. “It was an honor and a privilege to play for this historic team. Go Steelers.”
Stephon Tuitt has been an important member of the Steelers’ defense since joining the organization as a second-round pick in 2014. He became the team’s starting defensive end in his sophomore year and has kept his status ever since. Tuitt’s best year as a pro came in 2020 when he had career-high 11.0 sacks to go with 45 tackles, 25 QB hits, and two forced fumbles.
Tuitt’s retirement now leaves the Steelers in a tough spot. They haven’t made any additions to their defensive line in the draft or free agency and will have to replace Tuitt in-house. The most obvious candidates are second-year DE Isaiahh Loudermilk and veteran Chris Wormley.
