LB Harrison retires with 40th birthday approaching
Linebacker James Harrison is retiring from the NFL after 15 seasons.
Harrison, 39, was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers last season but joined the New England Patriots on Dec. 26 and helped the team reach the Super Bowl.
In an Instagram post on his account focused on fatherhood and features pictures of his children, Harrison wrote: "I've missed way too much for way too long...and I'm done. Many thanks to my family, coaches, the fans, and everyone who played a role in my football life."
Harrison had a franchise-record 80.5 sacks in 14 seasons with the Steelers. He turns 40 on May 4.
During media availability at Super Bowl LII, Harrison said he was planning to return in 2018.
"I maybe want to play a year at 40, maybe 41," Harrison said.
His previous retirement attempt lasted only one month in 2014. He announced in August he was done, but Harrison returned to the field in September.
Former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jim Marshall played his last NFL game within two weeks of his 42nd birthday and holds the record for the oldest active defensive player in league history.
--Field Level Media
