Free agent linebacker Jason Worilds, who played last season under a transition tag tender offer from the Pittsburgh Steelers, unexpectedly announced his retirement on Tuesday Night. The move comes on the heels of other surprising retirement announcements from former Tennessee Titans quarterback Jake Locker, and former San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis. Worilds made the announcement via a statement released by his agent, Jason Bernstein, late Tuesday evening.
“I appreciate all of the interest from the organizations that have reached out to us the past few days,” the statement reads. “With that being said, after much thought & consideration I have chosen to step away from football as I have opted to pursue other interests.
“I am especially grateful of the opportunity to play before some of the greatest fans in football today. Despite any concern and speculation that may ensue, I appreciate those that are respectful of my decision.”
The 27-year-0ld walks away while teams were lining up to throw big money at the free agent. While he receieved about $9.75 million on a one-year transition tag tender with the Steelers last season, this year was looking like it could be even more lucrative for Worilds. According to reports he is leaving some serious money on the table, as he was expected to be one of the most sought after linebackers on the free agent market.
Jason Worilds is walking away from about $7M or $8M per year. At least $15M guaranteed.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2015
Worilds has had 15.5 sacks, and was a constant pass rushing threat for the Steelers over the last two seasons. In his five year NFL career, he has put up 204 tackles with 25.5 sacks. Worilds was the Steelers second round pick, 52nd overall in the 2010 NFL draft out of Virginia Tech.
Main Photo by Alex Trautwig/Getty Images
