A.J. Tarpley, 23, retiring from NFL because of concussions
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Aug 29, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills linebacker A.J. Tarpley (59) against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Steelers 43 to 19. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Former Stanford standout and Buffalo Bills linebacker A.J. Tarpley announced he was retiring from the NFL at the age of 23 after suffering a series of concussions.
"After months of introspection, I am retiring from football. I suffered the 3rd and 4th concussions of my career this past season and I am walking away from the game I love to preserve my future health," Tarpley said in an Instagram post on Wednesday.
"This decision is the hardest I've made yet but after much research and contemplation I believe it's what is best for me going forward."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Torrance, California, native joined the Bills as an undrafted rookie last season. Tarpley had eight tackles and one sack in 14 games last year.