STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- At 26 years old offensive lineman John Urschel already has a list of accomplishments that sets him apart.
The Ph.D. candidate at MIT won't be returning to the NFL as training camps open. Expected to be in contention for the Ravens' starting spot at center, the former Nittany Lion didn't report on Wednesday when the Ravens opened training camp. An unusual move after Urschel participated in OTAs was made clear: After three seasons in the NFL, the math whiz is walking away from football.
“This morning John Urschel informed me of his decision to retire from football,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “We respect John and respect his decision. We appreciate his efforts over the past three years and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
Urschel released this statement Thursday afternoon:
— John Urschel (@JohnCUrschel) July 27, 2017