Monday 2 July 2018 07:00, UK
Seattle Seahawks safety Kam Chancellor says he can not ignore his neck injury and declared it was "time for the next chapter".
The 30-year-old, who was injured in a game against the Arizona Cardinals in November, said that scans on his neck "showed no healing".
In a post on his Twitter page, Chancellor said: "I always prayed to God and told myself that I would play this game of football until the wheels fall off. Well the wheels didn't fall off, but God has given me a sign that I just can't ignore.
"To walk away from the game by choice is one thing, to walk away from the game because of the risk of paralysis is another.
"My final test showed no healing. I put all my blood sweat and tears into this game."
He added: "Thank you again for all of the support and love from everyone all over. Good or bad it's all received with love. Time for the next chapter."
Chancellor, a four-time pro-bowler, has played eight seasons in the NFL and was part of the Seahawks side that won the Super Bowl in 2014.
