On Wednesday, August 18th, Vikings linebacker Cam Smith took to social media announced his plan to retire from the NFL, less than a week after making his impressive return to game action.
The statement reads: “For the past 18 years, football has been such a tremendous part of my life. It has provided countless friendships, incredible memories and invaluable lessons that will last a lifetime”.
Selected in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Smith played in five regular-season games as a rookie and contributed on special teams in Minnesota’s two playoff games.Although sidelined last fall, he reunited with the team after surgery and became a source of inspiration for Vikings players, coaches and staff members. Smith spent much of the past year recovering from surgery to repair a congenital heart defect that was discovered only after he tested positive for COVID-19 in summer of 2020.
Smith played 18 snaps on defense and six on special teams. He was credited with one tackle before leaving the game with a concussion.
Smith continues: “I truly appreciate the support from all of my friends, family, the entire Vikings organization, USC, Athletes first, and everyone who has been by my side along the way”.
Read the full statement via Instagram below:
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