San Francisco 49ers linebacker Chris Borland retires due to health fears
Tuesday 17 March 2015 08:43, UK
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Chris Borland has made the surprise announcement that he is retiring from the NFL after just one season.
The 24-year-old told ESPN's "Outside the Lines" on Monday that he was concerned about the long-term effects of head trauma after talks with concussion researchers and his family.
Borland has had two prior concussions - although none last season - and said he notified the 49ers of his decision on Friday, which the team confirmed.
"I just honestly want to do what's best for my health," said Borland. "From what I've researched and what I've experienced, I don't think it's worth the risk."
Borland was one of the top rookies in the league last season after finishing with 107 tackles and two interceptions.
The announcement comes as an unexpected blow to the 49ers, who have already had a difficult off-season and also saw standout linebacker Patrick Willis retire last week.
