Jake Locker Is Retiring

Titans QB Jake Locker announced today that he's retiring from the NFL at age 26:

"I am retiring from football after much reflection and discussion with my family. I will always be grateful for having had the opportunity to realize my childhood dream of playing in the NFL and for the lifelong relationships I developed because of that experience. Football has always played a pivotal role in my life and I love the game, but I no longer have the burning desire necessary to play the game for a living; to continue to do so would be unfair to the next organization with whom I would eventually sign. I realize this decision is surprising to many, but I know in my heart that it is the right decision and I look forward to spending more time with my family and pursuing other interests."

Tennessee drafted Locker eighth overall out of Washington in 2011, and he started just 23 games over four injury-filled seasons. He's missed time with Lisfranc, hip, and thumb injuries, has suffered three shoulder dislocations, and regularly got lit up. Locker was reportedly getting some interest as a free agent, but it's a tough sport, and even tougher when your heart's not in it.