John Moffitt, an offensive lineman in his third professional season, leaves behind more than $1 million on his contract.
Jack Dempsey / AP
John Moffitt, a third-year guard with the Denver Broncos, informed the team that he is quitting the game immediately, citing his health and happiness and leaving more than $1 million in salary behind.
In an interview with the Associated Press published Wednesday, Moffitt said he was tired of risking his own health and looked forward to starting his new life beyond the game:
"I'm not trying to be the poster boy for 'Oh, I thought I should leave because of concussions.' I'm just saying, it's a valid point," Moffitt said. "I love the game and I respect the game and everybody who plays it knows what they risk and I knew what I risked when I played, and I'm no longer willing to risk it."
Denver Post Broncos beat writer Mike Klis first tweeted yesterday afternoon that something that Moffitt, who had played in only two games this season due to injury, might be making some changes:
Moffitt then confirmed everyone's suspicions shortly thereafter, even throwing in a little Goodell-directed gallows humor:
