The Arizona Cardinals said goodbye to defensive lineman Rodney Gunter this past offseason, as he signed a three-year contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Drafted in the fourth round by the Cardinals, he spent four seasons with the team.
However, Gunter will not get to play in 2020 with the Jaguars and has decided to retire because of a health condition he recently learned about.
He announced the decision on social media.
#GodHands🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/ZFJiQaAGns
— Rodney Gunter (@KingRod90) August 16, 2020
He wrote:
These three weeks have been a hard pill to swallow. Seeing my dreams vanish right in front of me has been extremely difficult.Â
After seeing several heart specialists I was told if I continue to play ball with my condition, I could possibly tear or rupture my aorta which is enlarged. This can cause sudden death or a severe stroke.Â
There is a 50/50 chance that surgery will fix my current health condition. But at the moment, I do not currently meet the criteria to undergo the operation. Those who qualify must have a 5.5+ cm enlarged aorta, while mine measures 5.0 cm. At this time, I cannot play or have the surgery so I must wait. So at this moment, the best choice for me and my family is to walk away from this game.Â
I appreciate the Jaguars for giving me an opportunity, and I’m thankful for everyone who has believed in me along the way.
We wish Gunter well and hope that he stays healthy.
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