Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Stephon Tuitt announced his retirement on Wednesday.
In a statement released on social media, Tuitt stated that “[a]fter the tragic loss of my brother Richard, and upon my completing my degree from the University of Notre Dame, I know I am being called to move beyond the sport of football.”
Steelers’ 29-year-old DE Stephon Tuitt announced that he is retiring from the NFL. pic.twitter.com/zm7FwNmfe0
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 1, 2022
Tuitt’s brother, Richard Bartlett III, was killed just over one year ago. He was struck by a vehicle in Johns Creek, a suburb of Atlanta, while he was securing a mattress to his girlfriend’s vehicle. As of this year, despite the efforts of law enforcement and an offer of a $17,000 reward, the case remains unsolved.
Tuitt started 15 games for the Steelers during the 2020 season, recording a career-high 11 sacks. He suffered an injury prior to the 2021 campaign, and did not suit up for Pittsburgh.