 |
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Former Tennessee Titans linebacker David Thornton has decided to retire after nine seasons in the NFL.
Thornton said in a statement released by his foundation Friday that his passion for the game has not wavered but he feels his decision to retire is the right thing for him. He thanked his former coaches and said he hopes to remain connected to football during retirement.
Thornton had 809 tackles, five sacks, five interceptions, 11 forced fumbles and one fumble recovery in 121 games. He missed the 2010 season recovering from hip surgery.
The Goldsboro, N.C., native was selected in the fourth round of the 2002 draft by Indianapolis, where he spent the first four seasons of his career before being signed by the Titans as an unrestricted free agent.
DAVID THORNTON STATEMENT
"After nearly a decade of professional football, the time has come to announce my retirement from the National Football League. My love and passion for the game will never waver, but I am confident that this is the right decision for me at this time. Growing up, playing in the NFL seemed farfetched; however, the Lord had greater plans for me than I ever imagined. I am still in awe of God's goodness, for He is the One who placed me in this position and blessed me with tremendous opportunities. I am honored God chose to use me in this capacity.
"I would like to thank my amazing family and friends for always believing in me and supporting me through the ups and downs. I am incredibly grateful for all of my teammates throughout the past nine years—our relationships extend far beyond the trenches. I would also like to thank the Tennessee Titans for having faith in my ability to be of more value than just my on-field production, particularly this past season; and the Indianapolis Colts, for seeing the potential in a walk-on from the University of North Carolina and teaching me the skills I needed to succeed. I would like to extend a special thank you to Coach John Bunting, Coach Tony Dungy, Coach Jeff Fisher and all of my coaches for their influence and impact on my life.
"I am extremely humbled and thankful for all that I have experienced in my career. Football has given me a platform to share my faith and reach individuals on a personal level. I truly have no regrets and I am excited about where God leads me in the next chapter of my life. I plan to remain connected and engaged in football, but I will be letting God guide my steps as He's never let me down. Again, thank you to everyone from the fans to the media; charities and companies that I have partnered with throughout my career; my hometown of Goldsboro, North Carolina and all of the people I have come in contact with throughout my journey that make football the greatest sport in America."
