Former NFL linebacker and Alabama standout Rolando McClain said in a statement Thursday that he loves playing football but decided to retire to get his personal life in order and "God willing" he might play in the NFL again. McClain announced his retirement at the age of 23 after just three NFL seasons.
"Clearly, my decision to retire has raised some questions. Quite simply, I love football, but I have decided at this time it is in my best interest to focus on getting my personal life together," McClain said in the statement.
"Beyond that, I'm not sure what the future holds for me, including football. This was entirely my decision and the Ravens have been very supportive during this process. I am very grateful for the opportunity they gave me and wish them the best of luck in the future. God willing, maybe I'll play for them one day."
Ten days after signing with the Ravens, McClain was arrested in his hometown of Decatur, Ala., and charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. The incident marked the third time McClain was arrested in Decatur since 2011.
He was previously charged in a 2011 shooting, and police arrested him in January on charges of having his car windows tinted too darkly and trying to lie about his identity. McClain was sentenced to jail on an assault charge after the shooting, but prosecutors later dismissed the case.
A city judge dismissed the January charge against McClain of trying to lie about his identity. He pleaded guilty to the window tint violation and paid a $182 fine.
Before joining the Ravens this offseason, McClain spent his first three NFL seasons with the Raiders, who selected him eighth overall in the 2010 draft out of Alabama. In 41 games with Oakland, McClain recorded 274 tackles, 6.5 sacks and one interception. During his final season, the linebacker was suspended for two games for conduct detrimental to the team.
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
