Unbelievable: A very loyal 49ers player has announced his sudden retirement, sending a powerful statement and bidding the team and supporters a heartfelt farewell.
I am announcing my retirement from the NFL with a lot of mixed feelings after 13 amazing seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and several months of thought. Since I was eight years old, playing football has been my greatest passion, but my body is telling me it’s time.
Since football is a physically demanding activity, I have pushed myself to the utmost during play. The previous season was an incredible experience, since it offered the chance to pursue a championship. However, it was the worst for my family and me by far. With many injuries and a failing neck problem, my body was collapsing, and the ongoing pain interfered with every part of my existence.
Grace and Audrey, my two small girls, are mine. My world is theirs. It would be self-centered and careless of me to decide to play another season when my body tells me it’s time, endangering my future with them and my capacity to be the parent I want to be.
My daughters should know that they are my first priority, no matter what.
I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to my career’s fulfillment. To begin with the York family: I regret not being able to present you with the Lombardi Trophy during my 13 years here. I will always be grateful to your family for giving me the chance to represent the team and wear red and gold for the duration of my professional career. I’m grateful.
T Joe Staley
To every coach I have ever played for: I owe a great deal to all of you for shaping my game. Without your time and dedication, I would not have become the player I am today, having learned so much from you. You all challenged me to do better and made going to work every day a blessing. I’m grateful.
It was a pleasure to come to work every day because of the bond I made with all the guys I shared the field and the locker room with over the years. I’ve made lifetime friendships and memories during this period that I will cherish forever. I’m grateful.
To all of the operating and support staff: We really appreciate all of the many hours and sacrifices you have made to ensure that the players are prepared for gameday. It’s not often sufficiently explained to you how crucial and significant these duties are. I’m grateful.
To the faithful 49ers: I am appreciative that you welcomed this loud, annoying youngster from Central Michigan with open arms.
I hope that every time I stepped onto the pitch, my work and dedication made you all proud. This club has never been in better hands and has greater promise, even though I wish we had won at least one of the Super Bowls I was lucky enough to participate in. Remain resolute and vocal; the players can hear you. I’m grateful.
T Joe Staley
Lastly, to my spouse, Carrie: From the day we first met, you have been a reassuring and kind presence in my life. Throughout my profession, you have shown me selflessness, patience, and grace in handling stress for our family and me. You are a wonderful mother to our kids, and you have improved me as a person. I’m excited to co-write the next chapters of our lives. I’m grateful, and I love you.
I will always have a great affection for the Bay Area and the San Francisco 49ers, and I intend to continue being involved with the organization in the future. I leave the game knowing that I gave it everything I had, even if I’m sad and saddened that it’s time to go on.
I achieved the childhood dreams I had imagined. I will now focus on assisting my daughters in developing and realizing their own aspirations.
With deep appreciation and love,
