Former Wayzata star AJ Tarpley retires from NFL at 23 after concussions
Photo: AJ Tarpley/Instagram
PLYMOUTH, Minn. (KMSP) - 23-year-old A.J. Tarpley, former football star at Wayzata High School, announced Wednesday he's retiring from the NFL after playing one season with the Buffalo Bills, citing concussions.
"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," he wrote on social media.
The linebacker's early retirement illustrates growing concerns over traumatic brain injuries sustained by playing football, and an increase in preventative actions being taken.
"After months of introspection, I am retiring from football. I suffered the third and fourth concussions of my career this past season and I am walking away from the game I love to preserve my future health," Tarpley said.
Last year, he joined the Bills as an undrafted rookie from Stanford and played in 14 games. Tarpley finished his collegiate career with 243 tackles, 16.5 tackles for a loss, 5.0 sacks and four interceptions in 54 games played.
Tarpley's entire post to Instagram and Facebook:
"The only thing comforting about not knowing this play would be the last of my career, is knowing that I never took a second for granted.
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.
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.