Former NFL Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison is retiring from football after an 11-year career. Harrison announced his decision Saturday on his Facebook page.
A five-time pro bowl linebacker, Harrison spent 10 years with the Pittsburgh Steelers and played for the Cincinnati Bengals last season. As for why he's stepping away from the game, Harrison cited family reasons, saying that his career has taken too much time away from him spending time with his loved ones.
"I have made the difficult decision to retire as of today," Harrison's statement said. "My love for my family and the need to be there for them outweighs my desire to play the game. I have missed too many experiences with them because I devoted SO much time to my career. My love for the game isn't strong enough to make up for missing one more birthday or first day of school."
Harrison, 36, was cut by the Bengals in March after his worst season since his second year in the NFL. He saw limited playing time in 15 games and had 30 tackles and just two sacks. Prior to Saturday's announcement Harrison was still seeking another team to play for, visiting with the Arizona Cardinals this past week.
Harrison won two Super Bowls with the Steelers in 2005 and 2008. His best season came in 2008 when he had 101 tackles and a team-record 16 sacks. That same year he became the first undrafted player to win the defensive player of the year award.
"I am sincerely thankful to the people who have supported me over the years," his statement continued. "First and foremost my family, the Rooney family and my Steeler family, also Mr. Brown, the Bengals organization and fans, and last but FAR from least, Steeler Nation."
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