Pittsburgh Steelers LB Jason Worilds retires

Pittsburgh Steelers LB Jason Worilds was set to become a free agent, but has decided to retire instead.

Pittsburgh Steelers LB Jason Worilds was set to become a free agent. There were teams that were interested in adding the 27 year old linebacker onto their roster. He was coming off of a season in which he played in all 16 games and finished the season with 7.5 sacks and 59 tackles. Instead of signing onto a new team, he has chosen to retire instead, according to his agent.

More from NFL Free Agency

• Shocking reunion with Saints fan favorite finally made official after months of hints
• NFL rumors: Dalvin Cook could combine powers with a former rival
• NFL insider reveals the only way Ezekiel Elliott would wind up back with Cowboys
• NFL rumors: DeAndre Hopkins reunion with former quarterback off the table
• Dak Prescott is excited for Ezekiel Elliott’s next NFL opportunity, even if it’s not with the Cowboys

Here is the statement that was released by Worilds:

“I appreciate all of the interest from the organizations that have reached out to us the past few days. With that being said, after much thought & consideration I have chosen to step away from football as I have opted to pursue other interests. I am especially grateful of the opportunity to play before some of the greatest fans in football today. Despite any concern and speculation that may ensue, I appreciate those that are respectful of my decision.”

Steelers fans were wondering if they were going to get their outside linebacker back on a good deal after a number of free agents had signed on to other places. Pernell McPhee, Jerry Hughes and Brandon Graham all had signed deals with some teams and the suitors for Worilds were running low.

Worilds was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2nd round in the 2010 draft out of Virginia Tech. He still has the ability to be a solid starter for some teams. We will see if someone will be able to  offer him the dough to get him out of his retirement.

Worilds joins Patrick Willis and Jake Locker as young players that have chosen to leave the game early. He is walking away from a pretty sizable contract, but his health and life after football is more important to him.

Next: 2015 NFL Free Agent Tracker

More from FanSided

• Joe Burrow owes Justin Herbert a thank you note after new contract
• Chiefs gamble at wide receiver could already be biting them back
• Braves-Red Sox start time: Braves rain delay in Boston on July 25
• Yankees: Aaron Boone gives optimistic return date for Aaron Judge
• MLB Rumors: Yankees-Phillies trade showdown, Mariners swoop, India goes to Seattle