LOOK: Longtime Steelers defensive end Stephon Tuitt announces retirement
Stephon Tuitt is calling it a career.
After an eight-year NFL career — all spent with the Pittsburgh Steelers — the former Notre Dame star has announced his retirement. In a statement posted to Twitter by the NFL franchise, Tuitt detailed his feelings as thee fat lady begins to sing.
“With respect to the Steelers organization, my teammates, and coaches I would like to officially announce that I have come to the decision to retire from the NFL,” wrote Tuitt. “I am thankful to have had the opportunity to represent the city of Pittsburgh for the past eight seasons, and am blessed to leave this game with my health.
“After the tragic loss of my brother Richard, and upon completing my degree from the University of Notre Dame, I know I am being called to move beyond the sport of football. I want to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown both on and off the field, and again want to thank The Rooney Family, Coach Tomlin, and the entire Pittsburgh organization.
“It was an honor and a privilege to play for this historic team. Go Steelers.”
Over his eight-year career, the former Notre Dame star suited up for the Steelers in 91 games. In that time, Tuitt accumulated 246 total tackles, 48 tackles for loss, 34.5 sacks, six forced fumbles and one interception.
Stephon Tuitt has been a staple along the Steelers defensive line throughout his NFL career. As he calls it quits, the former Notre Dame star deserves his flowers.
ESPN insider shares latest on Steelers QB situation
Moreover, ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler shared the inside scoop on what he’s been hearing about the quarterbacks in Pittsburgh on Tuesday.
“From what I’m hearing Mitchell Trubisky has the inside track on the first team reps at least right now,” Fowler said on SportsCenter. I recently texted with Trubisky. He told me he quote, ‘definitely can’t wait for this quarterback battle.’ And he’s looked the part so far, I’m told.
“The Steelers have been very pleased with his arm strength, mobility, how he’s ingratiated himself with teammates but I’m also told the Steelers really want to play no favorites here throughout the process. All three quarterbacks including Mason Rudolph will get those game-simulated reps through the next three to four months. And as a source told me, ‘Look we didn’t draft Kenny Pickett for him to sit all that long.’ So it’s just a matter of when he plays.”