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Chris Borland: Players React to His Stunning Decision

By Sean Bialaszek

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On Monday, San Francisco 49ers‘ linebacker Chris Borland made a shocking announcement, as he declared to ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” that he would retire at 24 years old, and after just one NFL season. He cited his main reason for hanging up his cleats at such a young age to be his concern regarding potential head trauma, which is a common fear among players.

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Borland is joining a growing list of players who are retiring early, as just this offseason, many players have called it a career well short of what’s expected.

Pittsburgh Steelers’ linebacker Jason Worilds retired on the first day of free agency at the age of 27, despite being one of the most coveted players on the market, in order to follow his religious beliefs. Jake Locker, the oft-injured Tennessee Titans’ quarterback, retired at just 26 years of age and just four NFL seasons, as he stated he no longer had the desire to play the game.

Borland’s own teammate, Patrick Willis, retired after eight NFL seasons, as he has suffered from foot problems for years, and wanted to walk away while he still has the ability to walk.

As with any life-changing decision, peers and friends have chimed in to share their opinion. Most have been supportive and understanding, as they realize that Borland made probably the most difficult decision of his young life.

Eight-year veteran guard Geoff Schwartz, from the New York Giants, received some guff for this tweet, as some took it sarcastically, but Schwartz maintained that he was completely supportive of Borland and his decision.

Matt Overton, long-snapper for the Indianapolis Colts, and a former Pro-Bowler, brings up a great point, as football is just the beginning of their adult life. It doesn’t last much more than 10 to 12 years, and afterwards, there is a lot of uncertainty regarding what happens next. If your body is racked by injuries to the point that it becomes difficult to walk, opportunities are even more limited.

Tramaine Brock, the 49ers’ cornerback who was teammates with Borland for his lone season, echoed the thoughts of many fans with this tweet. The news of Borland’s retirement was shocking, but as more information became available as to the reasoning behind the decision, you start to understand. Borland has chosen his health over his livelihood, which is never an easy thing to do.

Of course, not everyone is on Borland’s side.

Seattle Seahawks’ All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner most likely echoes the sentiments of a lot of NFL players, who love the game and want to play as long as possible. For others like Borland, they take a step back and realize that life is bigger than football. Playing the game will only take up a small portion of their life, and the part that comes after is a huge concern.

The 49ers’ general manager, Trent Baalke, also made a statement regarding Borland.

"While unexpected, we certainly respect Chris’ decision. From speaking with Chris, it was evident that he had put a great deal of thought into this decision. He was a consummate professional from day one and a very well respected member of our team and community….We will always consider him a 49er and wish him all the best."

Borland has done his research, taken plenty of time to think it over, and made the decision that his health is much more important than whatever money he will make or any fame he will accrue.

Borland also makes a good case for staying in school and earning a degree. While he earned a bachelor’s degree in history during his time at the University of Wisconsin, Borland plans to return to school and further his education before pursuing a career in sports management.

Borland made an informed decision to do what’s best for him, his future, and his family. His tough choice should be admired, not ridiculed.