As if the swirling rumors that 27-year-old free agent linebacker Jason Worilds had up and decided to retire from the NFL despite the expectation that he would cash in on the NFL's open market weren't surprising enough, another twist, revealed Wednesday, has been added to the story.
According to a report from Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the former Pittsburgh Steeler is retiring so that he may more fully commit his time and energy to working for his religion, the Jehova's Witnesses.
"Steelers sources told the Post-Gazette today that they believe Worilds, who became an unrestricted free agent on Tuesday, is serious about walking away from football at the age of 27 to work for his religion, Jehovah's Witnesses, and that there is no hidden agenda involved in his decision," writes Bouchette.
While there was apparently some speculation that Worilds, who made nearly $10 million with the Steelers last season under the transition tag, might not actually retire, it seems to have become an official move on his part.
"I appreciate all of the interest from the organizations that have reached out to us the past few days. With that being said, after much thought & consideration I have chosen to step away from football as I have opted to pursue other interests," Worilds tweeted.
"I am especially grateful of the opportunity to play before some of the greatest fans in football today. Despite any concern and speculation that may ensue, I appreciate those that are respectful of my decision.''
Worilds collected 59 tackles, 7.5 sacks, two passes defensed, one forced fumble and one interception in 16 games last year for Pittsburgh. For his career he has 204 tackles and four forced fumbles.
There were a number of teams rumored to be interested in adding him via free agency, but it seems Worilds' passion lays elsewhere. He joins 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis and Titans quarterback Jake Locker as players who announced surprise retirements this offseason.
The Steelers released a statement thanking Worilds for his contributions and wish him luck in his post-football life.
"We respect his decision to retire and thank him for his five years in Pittsburgh," the statement read. "We wish him the best in his future endeavors."