PITTSBURGH — Eight years after joining the NFL, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Stephon Tuitt He announced his retirement Wednesday.
Tuitt, 29 years old, didn’t participate in the 2021 season after his brother was killed in a hit and run accident.
Tuitt stated that “After the tragic death of my brother Richard and upon completing the University of Notre Dame’s degree, I know that I am being called by God to move beyond football.” In a statement released publicly by the Steelers, Tuitt said.
Tuitt was chosen in the second round by the NFL draft 2014. He was with the team for eight years. Tuitt was a regular starter as a defensive end during six of his eight seasons. Since the 2021 offseason, Tuitt’s status has been mostly a mystery. Tuitt was unable to play football after June’s death of Richard Bartlett, III. Tuitt also had knee surgery in June 2021, but the Steelers decided not to place him on the physically incapacitated list to begin the season.
Steelers fans were still optimistic that he would return.
Kevin Colbert, former general manager, stated earlier this year that Stephon has been in touch with him. We wish him all the best as he attempts to return to the Steelers.
The Steelers have lost an important player in their defensive line with Tuitt’s resignation. Even though he didn’t play in the last season, Tuitt was still a force when healthy. He recorded a career-high 11 tackles in 2020 and also had two forced fumbles.
Omar Khan, general manager of the team, stated that his success on and off the field spoke volumes about who he was as a person. “Stephon was a man of class and maturity. He continues to be a great father, husband, son, and family man in his private life.
Steelers didn’t use any of their top picks for defensive line support. Chris Wormley Isaiahh Loudermilk as one of the top contenders to take Tuitt’s place.
Tuitt only had one year remaining on his contract. Tuitt leaves behind $10 million in dead money. But it can be spread across multiple years if the transaction takes place after June 1.