What Age Do Football Players Retire? NFL Retirement

The gridiron dreams of the National Football League (NFL) often culminate in a relatively early departure, raising the question of what age do football players retire from professional play. The physical toll exacted by the sport, including the cumulative impact of injuries like concussions, plays a significant role in shortening careers. The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) provides resources and support to players navigating this transition, highlighting the importance of planning for life beyond the field. While individual experiences vary greatly, influenced by factors such as position and playing style, the average retirement age hovers around a point considerably younger than most professions, making financial planning and career transitioning crucial considerations.

Navigating the NFL Retirement Landscape

The decision to retire from the National Football League is rarely straightforward. It's a complex, deeply personal calculation influenced by a constellation of factors. Players grapple with weighing the immediate rewards of continuing their careers against the long-term consequences for their physical and mental well-being.

This decision-making process has become increasingly scrutinized as awareness of the potential downsides of a career in professional football has grown.

The Multifaceted Nature of Retirement

Retirement in the NFL isn’t a simple exit; it’s a transition fraught with considerations extending far beyond the playing field. For many, football is more than a job; it's an identity, a community, and a source of immense personal fulfillment. Walking away from that requires a significant adjustment.

Key Influencing Factors

Several key factors typically weigh heavily on a player contemplating retirement:

• Physical Health: The brutal nature of the sport takes a heavy toll on the body. Cumulative injuries, chronic pain, and the risk of further trauma are significant deterrents.

• Financial Security: While NFL players can earn substantial salaries, financial planning is crucial. Players must consider the long-term implications of ending their playing careers.

• Career Prospects: Some players retire at the peak of their performance, while others face declining skills and reduced playing time. This influences their decision to retire. The availability of post-retirement opportunities also comes into play.

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The CTE Factor: A Game Changer

The increasing awareness of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) has fundamentally altered the landscape of NFL retirement. CTE, a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma, poses a significant threat. It causes players to consider the long-term health consequences of continuing to play.

The research surrounding CTE has prompted players, their families, and the league to re-evaluate the acceptable risks associated with the sport.

An Evolving and Complex Landscape

The NFL retirement landscape is dynamic, constantly evolving. Factors include rule changes aimed at player safety and improved medical protocols. Also, there are evolving attitudes among players regarding long-term health. These contribute to the growing complexities surrounding the decision to retire.

Navigating this landscape requires careful consideration. Players, their advisors, and the league itself must grapple with the multifaceted challenges of ensuring a safe and fulfilling transition into life after football.

Physical Health: The Body's Breaking Point

[Navigating the NFL Retirement Landscape The decision to retire from the National Football League is rarely straightforward. It's a complex, deeply personal calculation influenced by a constellation of factors. Players grapple with weighing the immediate rewards of continuing their careers against the long-term consequences for their physical and mental well-being. But the physical toll exacted by the sport looms large in every player's calculus. Few factors weigh more heavily on an NFL player's decision to hang up their cleats than the state of their physical health. ]

The Unforgiving Nature of the Game

The NFL is a brutal sport, characterized by violent collisions and relentless physical demands. The accumulation of injuries, from minor sprains to severe fractures, creates a cumulative burden that often dictates the longevity of a player's career. Chronic pain, a near-constant companion for many veterans, further erodes their ability to perform at an elite level.

These factors ultimately transform the decision to retire from a question of ambition into one of necessity.

Case Studies in Physical Deterioration

Examining the careers of players who retired prematurely due to injuries illustrates the stark reality of the game's physical toll:

Andrew Luck: The Weight of Persistent Injuries

Andrew Luck, the Indianapolis Colts' star quarterback, shocked the football world with his sudden retirement at just 29 years old. After battling a litany of injuries, including a lacerated kidney, a torn cartilage in his shoulder, and a partially torn abdomen, Luck reached a point where the physical pain overshadowed his passion for the game. His story underscores the mental and emotional toll of constantly battling injuries and enduring endless rehabilitation.

Calvin Johnson: The Megatron's Wear and Tear

Calvin "Megatron" Johnson, the Detroit Lions' legendary wide receiver, retired at age 30, citing the long-term effects of numerous injuries. Johnson's physical style of play, characterized by contested catches and bone-jarring hits, took a severe toll on his body. He spoke openly about the constant pain he endured and the realization that continuing to play would further jeopardize his long-term health.

Peyton Manning: Conquering Neck Injuries

Peyton Manning's career provides a different perspective. While he enjoyed a long and exceptionally successful career, neck injuries threatened to derail it. Multiple neck surgeries raised serious questions about his ability to continue playing at a high level. Manning's determination and rigorous rehabilitation allowed him to return, but the experience undoubtedly factored into his eventual retirement decision.

The Role of Team Doctors and Medical Staff

Team doctors and medical staff play a crucial role in providing players with accurate and comprehensive health information. Players rely on these professionals to assess their injuries, provide treatment options, and offer guidance on the potential risks and benefits of continuing to play.

However, the inherent conflict of interest – the team's desire to keep a valuable player on the field versus the player's long-term health – can create a challenging dynamic.

Concussions and Their Long-Term Shadow

Concussions represent one of the most significant health concerns facing NFL players. The immediate symptoms of a concussion can be debilitating, but the potential long-term effects are even more alarming. Repeated concussions have been linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease associated with memory loss, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes.

The growing awareness of the link between concussions and CTE has led to increased caution among players and a greater willingness to prioritize long-term brain health over short-term career goals. Players must carefully weigh the risks associated with playing a game that can have devastating effects on their cognitive function.

Mental and Psychological Well-being: Beyond the Physical Game

While the physical toll of playing in the NFL is undeniably significant, the mental and psychological challenges faced by players often remain shrouded in silence. The intense pressure to perform, the constant scrutiny, and the inherent violence of the sport create a unique environment that can profoundly impact a player’s mental well-being, ultimately influencing their decision to retire.

The Weight of Expectations

The NFL demands not only physical prowess but also unwavering mental fortitude. Players are expected to endure intense training regimens, withstand relentless physical punishment, and maintain a constant focus on achieving peak performance.

This pressure can lead to significant stress, anxiety, and even depression.

The fear of failure, the pressure to live up to lucrative contracts, and the public nature of their profession exacerbate these issues.

Emotional Toll of a Brutal Sport

Football, at its core, is a violent sport. Every play involves physical collisions, and players are constantly putting their bodies on the line. This inherent violence takes a significant emotional toll.

The constant threat of injury, the fear of long-term health consequences, and the emotional burden of winning and losing contribute to a high-stress environment.

Moreover, the hyper-masculine culture of football often discourages players from expressing vulnerability or seeking help for mental health issues, further compounding the problem.

The Shadow of CTE

The growing awareness of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) has cast a long shadow over the NFL. CTE, a degenerative brain disease linked to repeated head trauma, has been found in the brains of numerous deceased NFL players.

The potential for long-term cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes associated with CTE understandably fuels anxiety and fear among current players.

The fear of CTE not only impacts their decision to retire but also influences how they approach the game itself. Players are increasingly aware of the risks associated with head trauma and are more likely to prioritize their long-term brain health.

Case Study: Rob Gronkowski and the Strain of the Game

Rob Gronkowski's career offers a compelling case study of the interplay between physical and mental strain in retirement decisions. After initially retiring in 2019, citing the physical toll of years of injuries, Gronkowski returned to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020.

His initial retirement highlighted the profound impact of physical pain and the mental fatigue associated with constant rehabilitation.

While his return demonstrated his love for the game, it also underscored the complex factors that influence these decisions, often involving a delicate balance between passion, physical capacity, and mental well-being. Ultimately, Gronkowski retired again, emphasizing the accumulation of physical and mental wear.

Seeking Support and Shifting the Culture

The NFL and the NFLPA have made efforts to address the mental health needs of players, offering resources and support services. However, significant work remains to be done.

Changing the culture of football to encourage open communication about mental health and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help is crucial.

Providing comprehensive mental health support, promoting awareness of CTE, and fostering a culture that prioritizes long-term well-being are essential steps in ensuring that NFL players can make informed decisions about their careers and their futures.

Financial Security: Planning for Life After Football

While the roar of the crowd fades and the cleats are hung up for the final time, the practical realities of life after football begin to take center stage. For many NFL players, the specter of financial insecurity looms large if proactive planning isn’t prioritized. The comparatively short careers in professional football necessitate careful attention to financial management and long-term financial planning.

The decisions made during their playing years have a profound impact on their long-term financial stability.

The Imperative of Financial Planning

Financial planning is not merely advisable; it is essential for NFL players. The high-income years are often fleeting, and without prudent management, financial resources can be quickly depleted. Creating a robust financial plan should be initiated early in a player's career and revisited consistently as priorities change.

It must account for investments, savings, potential business ventures, and estate planning.

A comprehensive financial plan prepares the athlete for: Unexpected career-ending injuries Market downturns Poor investment choices Supporting dependents

Navigating Contract Negotiations

Contract negotiations are a pivotal moment for securing financial futures. Players should leverage professional representation not only to negotiate the highest possible salary, but also to understand the long-term implications of contract structures, bonus payouts, and guaranteed money. Guaranteed money is especially important, since that is truly secure in the event of injury or termination.

Understanding the contract language is crucial.

Contract clauses also impact the player's ability to: Invest in opportunities Set up a retirement fund

**Support a family

NFL Benefit Programs: Pension and Disability

The NFL offers its players two cornerstone programs to assist with their finances: NFL Pension Plan NFL Disability Benefits

The NFL Pension Plan provides retired players with a monthly income stream based on their years of service. This is a critical component of long-term financial security, offering a steady income source during retirement.

The NFL Disability Benefits program is designed to support players who sustain career-ending injuries or develop long-term health issues as a direct result of their playing career. Benefits are assessed based on the severity and nature of the disability. This serves as a safety net for those whose playing careers are prematurely cut short due to health reasons.

Accessing these benefits may require: Substantial documentation Navigating complex bureaucratic procedures**Seeking assistance from advisors and the NFLPA

The Role of Financial Advisors

Financial advisors play a critical role in managing finances post-retirement. These professionals assist with: Investment strategies Tax planning *Estate management

A capable financial advisor should possess a deep understanding of the unique financial challenges and opportunities faced by former athletes.

Choosing the right financial advisor is just as important as having one. Players should: Seek referrals Conduct thorough due diligence Ensure the advisor has a proven track record Seek advisors who have fiduciary duties

By taking a proactive approach to financial planning and management, NFL players can safeguard their long-term financial well-being and confidently transition into life after football.

Career Trajectory and Performance: Recognizing the Signs

While the allure of gridiron glory can be powerful, the pragmatic considerations of career trajectory and on-field performance inevitably factor into an NFL player's retirement calculus. The length of a career, the trajectory of performance, and the counsel of trusted agents all intertwine to shape the timing of this pivotal decision. Understanding these influences provides insight into the diverse paths players take when exiting the professional arena.

The Significance of Career Length and Longevity

The brutal reality of professional football is that few careers extend beyond a decade. The physical toll exacted by countless collisions and repetitive stress injuries often dictates a shorter lifespan than desired. Players who manage to achieve longevity, often through a combination of exceptional skill, meticulous training, and sheer luck, gain the unique advantage of control over their departure. This extended tenure provides the opportunity to leave on their own terms, potentially after achieving personal or team milestones.

The Inevitable Decline: Performance and Retirement

Even the most gifted athletes experience a decline in performance as they age. Speed diminishes, reaction times slow, and the body's ability to recover wanes. While some players adapt their game to compensate, others find themselves struggling to maintain the level of play required to compete at the highest level. For many, this decline serves as the catalyst for retirement, a recognition that the time has come to step aside and allow the next generation to take the field.

A Spectrum of Departures: Case Studies in Retirement Timing

The NFL landscape is littered with examples of players retiring at vastly different stages of their careers. Examining these instances offers a compelling perspective on the diverse factors that shape retirement decisions.

Tom Brady: The Long Goodbye

Tom Brady stands as a paragon of longevity. His remarkable career, spanning over two decades, defied the odds and redefined the limits of athletic performance. Brady's ability to maintain a high level of play well into his forties allowed him to choose his moment, ultimately retiring (and unretiring) after an unprecedented run of success. His departure, though initially met with speculation of a return, marked the end of an era.

Jim Brown: Leaving at the Summit

Jim Brown, a legendary fullback for the Cleveland Browns, shocked the football world by retiring at the peak of his powers. At the age of 30, with years of dominance seemingly ahead, Brown walked away from the game to pursue an acting career. His decision underscored the fact that retirement is not always dictated by physical decline but can also be driven by personal ambition and a desire for new challenges. Brown retired as the NFL's all-time leading rusher.

Barry Sanders: Premature Exit

Barry Sanders, a transcendent running back for the Detroit Lions, retired unexpectedly at the age of 30. Sanders, known for his electrifying agility and elusive running style, was still performing at an elite level when he made the decision to step away from the game. His retirement highlighted the emotional and psychological toll that professional football can take, even on the most gifted athletes. Sanders' decision, though controversial, was a testament to his personal convictions.

The Agent's Influence: Guiding the Way Out

Sports agents play a crucial role in advising players throughout their careers, including the sensitive matter of retirement. Agents provide guidance on contract negotiations, financial planning, and, perhaps most importantly, assessing a player's long-term health and well-being. The agent can serve as a sounding board, offering an objective perspective on a player's performance, potential for future earnings, and the risks associated with continuing to play. The advice offered by agents can significantly impact retirement timing, ensuring that players make informed decisions that prioritize their long-term interests. Ultimately, however, the retirement decision rests solely with the player.

Organizational Influences: The League, the Union, and the Alumni

While the allure of gridiron glory can be powerful, the pragmatic considerations of career trajectory and on-field performance inevitably factor into an NFL player's retirement calculus. The length of a career, the trajectory of performance, and the counsel of trusted agents all intertwine to influence when a player hangs up their cleats. Beyond the individual player's circumstances, however, lie the significant influences of the organizations that govern and support the game: the NFL, the NFLPA, and the NFL Alumni Association. These bodies play crucial roles in shaping player welfare, retirement benefits, and the overall experience of life in, and after, the league.

The NFL's Role: Balancing Business and Player Welfare

The National Football League, as the governing body and a multi-billion dollar enterprise, holds immense power in shaping the conditions of its players' careers. Its primary responsibility is to manage the league, set the rules of the game, and ensure its financial stability. However, the NFL's influence extends to player welfare through initiatives designed to promote player safety and health.

These initiatives, while often presented as altruistic, are also inextricably linked to the league's business interests. Minimizing player injuries, for instance, reduces the risk of costly lawsuits and protects the league's reputation. The NFL's approach to player welfare is therefore often viewed with skepticism, particularly when it comes to issues like CTE and long-term health consequences.

The NFLPA: Championing Player Rights and Benefits

In stark contrast to the league's sometimes ambivalent stance, the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) serves as the exclusive bargaining representative of NFL players. Its core mission is to protect and advance the rights of its members, including negotiating collective bargaining agreements that determine salaries, benefits, and working conditions.

The NFLPA has been instrumental in securing improvements to player health insurance, pension plans, and disability benefits. It advocates fiercely for player safety measures and has been a vocal critic of the NFL's handling of concussion-related issues. The union's influence is paramount in ensuring that players receive fair compensation and adequate support, both during their playing careers and in retirement.

NFL Alumni Association: A Lifeline for Former Players

The transition from NFL player to retiree can be a jarring experience. The NFL Alumni Association steps in to provide a network of support for former players, helping them navigate the challenges of life after football.

The NFL Alumni Association's mission is to assist former players in various aspects of their post-NFL life, including career development, financial planning, healthcare access, and community involvement. This organization serves as a critical lifeline for those who may struggle with the transition, offering guidance and resources to help them build successful and fulfilling lives after their playing days.

The Understated Impact of Environments and Facilities

While the organizations mentioned above have direct influence, locations also shape the experiences of NFL players.

NFL Stadiums can create an intense atmosphere, with roaring crowds generating extreme pressure for athletes. Training Facilities and NFL Team Headquarters also exert a significant impact on players, with constant training regimes and rigorous requirements.

The pressure to perform, maintain fitness, and endure can impact retirement decisions, highlighting the importance of support programs for players transitioning out of the NFL.

A Complex Ecosystem of Influence

The NFL, NFLPA, and NFL Alumni Association operate within a complex ecosystem, each with its own agenda and priorities. While the NFL aims to protect its business interests, the NFLPA champions player rights, and the NFL Alumni Association supports former players. Understanding the roles and influences of these organizations is crucial to gaining a holistic perspective on the factors shaping NFL player welfare and retirement decisions. The interplay between these entities ultimately shapes the landscape for players as they navigate their careers and prepare for life beyond the gridiron.

CTE and Brain Health: A Growing Understanding

While the allure of gridiron glory can be powerful, the pragmatic considerations of career trajectory and on-field performance inevitably factor into an NFL player's retirement calculus. The length of a career, the trajectory of performance, and the counsel of trusted agents all intersect, but a shadow looms large over these decisions: the evolving understanding of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and its broader implications for brain health. This growing awareness is reshaping player perspectives and influencing retirement timelines in profound ways.

The Scientific Awakening: Researchers and Player Awareness

The landscape of NFL retirement discussions has been irrevocably altered by the relentless efforts of researchers and doctors dedicated to unraveling the complexities of CTE. Their work has moved CTE from a peripheral concern to a central consideration for players contemplating their future.

Previously dismissed or downplayed, the risk of long-term brain damage is now a tangible threat, fueled by scientific findings published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated through mainstream media. This increased visibility has empowered players with knowledge, forcing a reckoning with the potential consequences of prolonged participation in a sport known for its violent collisions.

Dissemination and Impact

The impact of this information is twofold. First, it provides players with the scientific basis for understanding the risks they face.

Second, it normalizes discussions about brain health within locker rooms and among player support networks.

No longer is concern for cognitive well-being viewed as weakness; rather, it's an informed and rational response to credible scientific evidence. This shift represents a significant cultural change within the NFL.

Boston University CTE Center: A Beacon of Research

At the forefront of CTE research stands the Boston University CTE Center, an institution whose contributions have been nothing short of transformative.

Through meticulous post-mortem brain analysis, the center has established irrefutable links between repetitive head trauma and the development of CTE.

Their findings, often sobering and difficult to ignore, have provided the most compelling evidence to date regarding the long-term neurological consequences of playing football.

Longitudinal Studies and Future Implications

The center's longitudinal studies, tracking the cognitive health of former players over decades, are particularly vital. These studies provide a glimpse into the future for current players, illustrating the potential trajectory of cognitive decline and behavioral changes associated with CTE.

The Boston University CTE Center's research serves as a crucial resource for players, agents, and team doctors, equipping them with the information necessary to make informed decisions about career longevity and post-retirement care.

The Concussion Legacy Foundation: Advocacy and Education

Complementing the scientific rigor of institutions like the Boston University CTE Center is the advocacy and educational work of the Concussion Legacy Foundation. This organization has been instrumental in raising public awareness about the dangers of concussions and CTE, not only in football but across all sports and activities.

By championing safer playing practices, supporting research initiatives, and providing resources for affected individuals and families, the Concussion Legacy Foundation has become a powerful voice for change.

Beyond Awareness: Support and Resources

The Foundation's impact extends beyond mere awareness campaigns. They offer support services for former players struggling with cognitive or emotional difficulties, connecting them with medical professionals and providing access to cutting-edge treatments.

Furthermore, they actively promote the adoption of safer tackling techniques and concussion protocols at all levels of football, from youth leagues to the NFL.

The Concussion Legacy Foundation’s multifaceted approach ensures that the conversation about CTE is not confined to research labs or locker rooms, but resonates throughout society, prompting action and fostering a culture of safety.

Risk Aversion and Changing Attitudes: Prioritizing Long-Term Health

While the allure of gridiron glory can be powerful, the pragmatic considerations of career trajectory and on-field performance inevitably factor into an NFL player's retirement calculus. The length of a career, the trajectory of performance, and the counsel of trusted agents all intersect, but a shadow of increasing risk aversion is reshaping the landscape. Players are re-evaluating the physical toll and long-term consequences of playing football, leading to a significant shift in retirement decision-making.

The Rising Tide of Risk Aversion

The modern NFL player is arguably more aware of the risks associated with the sport than ever before. This heightened awareness stems from several factors, including increased media coverage of injuries, advancements in medical research, and a greater emphasis on player safety by the league and the NFLPA.

Consequently, we are witnessing a growing trend of players retiring earlier than previous generations. The traditional mindset of "playing through the pain" is gradually being replaced by a more cautious approach that prioritizes long-term health and well-being.

The financial security afforded by lucrative contracts also plays a role, allowing players to make choices based on health rather than solely on financial need.

Shifting Attitudes Towards Long-Term Health

The cultural shift within the NFL regarding long-term health is palpable. In the past, the emphasis was often on toughness and sacrificing one's body for the team. However, this stoic attitude is evolving as players become more informed about the potential consequences of repeated head trauma and other injuries.

Players are now more willing to openly discuss their physical and mental health challenges, breaking down the stigma that once surrounded these issues. This increased transparency fosters a more supportive environment where players feel empowered to prioritize their well-being.

The Role of Education and Advocacy

Organizations like the NFLPA and the Concussion Legacy Foundation have been instrumental in raising awareness about the long-term health risks associated with playing football. Through educational programs, advocacy efforts, and research initiatives, these groups have empowered players to make more informed decisions about their careers.

The media also plays a crucial role in disseminating information and shaping public perception. By highlighting the stories of former players who have struggled with the long-term effects of their careers, the media helps to humanize the issue and underscore the importance of prioritizing player health.

A New Era of Player Empowerment?

The increasing risk aversion and changing attitudes toward long-term health signal a potential shift in the power dynamics within the NFL. As players become more aware of their rights and the potential consequences of their actions, they are increasingly willing to advocate for their own well-being.

This trend could lead to further changes in the league's policies and practices, including stricter protocols for concussion management, improved access to mental health resources, and greater emphasis on player safety.

Ultimately, the future of the NFL may depend on its ability to adapt to these changing attitudes and create a culture that truly values the health and well-being of its players. The long-term consequences of failing to do so could be dire.

Tools, Data, and Information: Shaping Retirement Discussions

While the allure of gridiron glory can be powerful, the pragmatic considerations of career trajectory and on-field performance inevitably factor into an NFL player's retirement calculus. The length of a career, the trajectory of performance, and the counsel of trusted agents all inform these pivotal choices. However, beyond these direct influences, the tools, data, and information available to players—and disseminated to the public—profoundly shape the narrative surrounding NFL retirement.

The Decisive Role of Injury Reports

Injury reports, often seen as a mere formality for game-day planning, play a crucial role in evaluating a player's present and future viability. They serve as a tangible, albeit sometimes opaque, assessment of a player’s physical condition.

The specificity of these reports, or lack thereof, directly impacts the perception of a player's health and longevity. A vague "upper body injury" carries less weight than a detailed diagnosis of a torn rotator cuff, for example.

Teams, players, and agents strategize around the release of this information. This can be viewed as both a tool for transparency and a mechanism for managing expectations, or mitigating potential financial losses.

The NFL’s attempt to standardize injury reporting aims to provide a more consistent and reliable source of information. Yet, the inherent ambiguity can still lead to varied interpretations.

Ultimately, injury reports are far more than administrative documents. They are essential tools in the complex decision-making process surrounding retirement.

Retirement Announcements: Shaping the Narrative

The way a player chooses to announce their retirement has a significant impact on public perception and the overall narrative. The medium, the message, and the timing all contribute to the story.

A press conference provides a formal setting, allowing the player to control the message and express gratitude.

Social media, on the other hand, offers a direct line to fans, enabling a more personal and unfiltered announcement.

The content of the announcement matters just as much. Highlighting health concerns can raise awareness of the physical toll of the game. Focusing on future endeavors frames retirement as a positive transition.

The emotional tone, whether somber or celebratory, influences how fans and the media interpret the decision.

Furthermore, the timing of the announcement can be strategic. Players may choose to retire before a season, during training camp, or even mid-season.

Each scenario presents different implications for the team and the player's legacy.

In conclusion, retirement announcements are not merely farewells. They are carefully crafted statements that shape public discourse and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the realities of life after football. The strategic use of these tools empowers players to manage their narrative and leave a lasting impression.

So, while there's no magic number, and every player's journey is unique, it's safe to say that most NFL careers wind down around the late 20s and early 30s. Ultimately, the decision of what age do football players retire comes down to a complex mix of physical toll, financial security, and the burning desire to keep playing the game they love. It's a tough call, no doubt!