After eight seasons which included five All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl nods, San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis officially announced his retirement on Tuesday.
Willis, who is only 30 years old, cited his health as the main reason why he’s walking away from the game.
“It’s my health first and everything else makes sense” — Patrick Willis.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoCSN) March 10, 2015
The 49ers confirmed Willis’ retirement on Tuesday morning.
To our 7x Pro Bowl LB, @PatrickWillis52, thank you! We wish you all the best. #FarewellPat
http://t.co/gIuZUWyNLn pic.twitter.com/l4a9XaFIX3
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) March 10, 2015
49ers owner Jed York issued the following statement on Willis’ retirement:
“On behalf of the entire San Francisco 49ers organization, my family, and our Faithful fans, I would like to thank Patrick for everything he has brought to this team and our community. Some of the greatest memories in the history of our franchise have come from his passion, dedication and sacrifice.
“Patrick epitomizes everything you could ever want in a San Francisco 49er. What he brought to this team goes much further than his athletic abilities. His leadership and infectious love for the game helped propel this team. I consider myself very lucky to have grown up around some of the greatest players in the history of this franchise, and Patrick has certainly secured his place among that elite group of men. As a member of our family, Patrick holds a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to supporting him as he moves on from his playing career.”
As for the man himself, the 49ers held a press conference for Willis on Tuesday afternoon. Willis got understandably emotional saying goodbye to his teammates, the 49ers organization and his career as an NFL linebacker.
“I’ve given this game everything I had. I’ve had the most amazing eight years of football in my entire life being part of this historic organization.”
The 49ers have certainly lost one of the team’s classiest individuals and one of their best leaders in the locker room. Still, it is great to see Patrick Willis leave the game on his own terms, something that is all too rare in sports.
"Here I stand, not as a perfect man, but as an honest man"- Patrick Willis at retirement press conference. pic.twitter.com/a1jaSxrULj
— SundayNight Football (@SNFonNBC) March 10, 2015
