Texans tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz considering retirement

Houston Texans tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz is reportedly considering retirement. A report surfaced back in December that this was possible. But Fiedorowicz’s agent stated he would prefer to play. It was made known this weekend that Fiedorowicz is seriously contemplating the possibility.

In an interview with Joe Stevenson of the Northwest Herald Fiedorowicz said “A dude knocked me out”. Fiedorowicz later added concern over the long term impact of brain injuries. “You can’t go repair your brain,” Fiedorowicz stated.

Unfortunately Fiedorowicz suffered three concussions during the 2017 season. Due to the injuries Fiedorowicz only appeared in five games, catching 14 passes for 127 yards. This was a disappointment after what appeared to be a career that was trending upward. Fiedorowicz played in 16 games in 2015, only catching 17 passes for 167 yards and one touchdown. Building upon his success, 2016 was a step in the right direction. Hauling in 54 passes for 559 yards and four touchdowns. Fiedorowicz certainly appeared to be ready to build his career and be the go-to target for Deshaun Watson. The three concussions suffered in 2017 altered those plans.

In what has become a growing trend in the NFL, players are retiring earlier over concerns later in life. The younger players have seen what has happened to players as they age and they would prefer to avoid that at all costs. Former players have struggled with everyday tasks and many of them have taken their own life as a result. Given the choice, younger players would rather retire early and be healthy rather than suffer like others have.

At the end of the day it is about long term health. Suffering three concussions over the course of one season is certainly a valid reason to retire. Football is only a game. There is more to life than a game and Fiedorowicz should want to be around long enough to experience it. Retiring now gives him a better chance to accomplish this.