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Sports

49ers CB Wright retires

By Sports Network
Published | Updated

Santa Clara, CA (SportsNetwork.com) - After seven NFL seasons, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Eric Wright announced his retirement Tuesday.

Wright played in seven regular-season games and two playoff games for the 49ers last season after signing as a free agent.

"After seven NFL seasons, I am announcing my retirement from professional football," said Wright. "Playing was the fulfillment of a childhood dream, but as I prepared for the coming season, I realized that I no longer had the same passion I once had for the game. The San Francisco 49ers have given me an amazing opportunity to play for the team I grew up rooting for, and I owe the York family, my coaches, and my teammates tremendous gratitude. I will be forever grateful to all of the franchises I was lucky enough to play for, and look forward to beginning the next phase of my life, and spending more time with my family."

The 28-year-old signed a five-year, $37.5 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prior to the 2012 season, then served a four-game suspension. He only had 37 tackles and one interception with the Buccaneers that year.

They traded him to the San Francisco for a conditional draft pick last offseason. After Wright failed his team physical, the trade was voided and he eventually signed with the 49ers after being released by the Bucs.

"Last night, Eric reached out to inform us of his plans to retire," said 49ers general manager Trent Baalke. "After a lengthy discussion, it was evident he put a great deal of thought into his decision. Eric has our full support and we wish him and his family nothing but the best."

Originally a second-round pick out of UNLV by the Cleveland Browns in 2007, Wright recorded 367 tackles, one sack and 15 interceptions in 92 career games (81 starts) with the Browns, Lions, Buccaneers and 49ers.

The official news of Wright's retirement came on the same day that tight end Vernon Davis and guard Alex Boone did not report to the start of the team's mandatory mini-camp. Both players are both engaged in contract disputes.