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Arizona Cardinals tight end Travis Vokolek has been forced to retire at just 28 years old after suffering a serious neck injury during a game in October.
Vokolek suffered the injury during a touchback in the first quarter of Arizonas 31-27 defeat to the Indianapolis Colts.
The tight end fell awkwardly after colliding with linebacker Segun Olubi and remained motionless on the turf for an extended period.
Medical staff stabilized Vokoleks head and neck before he was placed on a stretcher and taken to an Indianapolis hospital for further evaluation.
He was later cleared to travel back home with the Cardinals.
Arizona placed him on injured reserve for the remainder of the season, and Vokolek confirmed on Wednesday that the play marked the final moment of his NFL career.
The 28-year-old announced his retirement in a social media post, revealing that he was stepping away from football on the advice of doctors.
"After numerous visits with doctors and neurologists over the past couple of months, I have been advised to medically retire from the NFL due to a serious neck injury that I suffered this past season," said Vokolek.
"I am extremely grateful and blessed to have been able to live out my childhood dream of playing football at the highest level for the past three years.
Football has taught me many life lessons and given me unforgettable memories.
"I am forever grateful to all my teammates, coaches, trainers, and others who have supported my family and I along the way.
A sincere thank you to the Arizona Cardinals training staff for being first class with the care and support they provided my family and I during this hard time." He also paid tribute to his wife for her unwavering support throughout his recovery from the neck injury.
"I have attacked everyday of being a professional football player with passion, determination, and discipline," he added.
"I can say that I truly left everything out on the field.
Thank you for all of the love and support.
Lastly, thank you football!" Vokolek began his college career at Rutgers before transferring to Nebraska, where he continued his development ahead of turning professional.
He signed with the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2023 but did not make an appearance for the team.
The tight end joined the Cardinals in December 2023 and went on to feature in eight games for Arizona, although he was never a significant part of the teams offensive plans.
His retirement comes shortly after former Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Levi Wallace also announced his decision to step away from football.
Meanwhile, star wide receiver Tyreek Hills future in the NFL remains uncertain after suffering a serious injury last season.