In eight seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, linebacker Patrick Willis racked up 732 tackles, 20.5 sacks, eight interceptions and served as the undisputed anchor for what was often one of the NFL's most feared defenses.
Now, having just turned 30, Willis is walking away from the game even though he likely could play on for several more years if he wanted to.
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"Some of the greatest memories in the history of our franchise have come from his passion, dedication and sacrifice," CEO Jed York said in a statement released by the team. "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."
Some of our favorite photos of @PatrickWillis52. #FarewellPat https://t.co/80qw2UNPVl— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) March 10, 2015
Willis struggled with injuries this past season for the first time in his career, playing just six games because of a strained muscle in his left big toe.
Taken in context of emerging evidence about the long-term debilitating effects pro football can have on players long after they retire, that injury serves as a somber reminder that playing until one's body gives out might not be the best idea.
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In a Tuesday afternoon news conference, Willis cried, made several religious references and said bodily wear and tear were what ultimately forced him away from the game.
“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,” Willis said, per NBC Sports.
“If I had anything left in these feet — you’ve all seen me, I broke my hand on a Sunday, had surgery on a Monday and played with a cast on Thursday — but it’s something about these feet. When you don’t have feet, for me, that’s what has made me who I am,” he added.
Willis also appeared to have put his necktie on before his shirt, but that's neither here nor there.
So, um, the tie actually goes … you know what, nevermind pic.twitter.com/d1bnOmzPqM— Will Brinson (@WillBrinson) March 10, 2015