(SportsNetwork.com) - Former Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Jason Worilds has decided to step away from football to pursue other interests.
It is the third shocking retirement in the last 24 hours.
30-year-old linebacker Patrick Willis and 26-year-old quarterback Jake Locker also decided to walk away from the game.
Worilds released a statement through his player representative Jason Bernstein.
"I appreciate all of the interest from the organizations that have reached out to us the past few days," the statement reads. "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."
Worilds was set to make a lot of money after recording 15 1/2 sacks over his last two seasons with the Steelers, who he spent his entire six-year career with. He tallied 59 tackles and 7 1/2 sacks with the team last season.
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