Steelers DE Stephon Tuitt announces retirement

As Amanda Woods explained for the New York Post, Pittsburgh Steelers veteran defensive end Stephon Tuitt lost his younger brother in a hit-and-run accident last June. Tuitt then didn't play during the 2021 season because of a knee injury. 

Per Teresa Varley of the Steelers' website, Tuitt confirmed on Wednesday afternoon he is retiring as an active player. It was previously thought the 29-year-old could attempt a comeback later this year, but it wasn't to be. 

"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," Tuitt said in the statement. 

"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."

Tuitt first entered the league when the Steelers selected him in the second round of the 2014 draft. In total, he tallied 34.5 sacks, 246 tackles, six forced fumbles, 94 quarterback hits, 48 tackles for loss, and one interception across 91 career regular-season games. 

He also logged eight postseason starts and accumulated 24 tackles and two fumble recoveries over those contests. 

"I want to thank Stephon for all he did for the Steelers during his eight-year career in Pittsburgh," general manager Omar Khan added. "His success both on and off the field speaks volumes for who he is as a person and a player. Stephon has always handled himself with class and maturity as he continues to be a great husband, father, son and family man in his personal life. Now that he has informed us he is retiring from football, we are all thrilled to see what he becomes as a person and professional after graduating from Notre Dame this past month. We are excited for what lies ahead in his life and will continue to support him in any way we can."