Andrew Luck shook up the NFL and entire world of sports with his emotional announcement that he was abruptly retiring from the game. Luck walks away from the NFL having played in 86 career regular-season games, going 53-33 in those contest, with 171 touchdown passes. Players from around the NFL reacted, offering praise for the former No. 1 overall pick.
One of his former college teammates and closest friends was left emotional by the announcement as well. Zach Ertz is the star tight end for the Philadelphia Eagles and caught passes from Luck while at Stanford.
He had this to say about Luck:
“I’m proud of him. It’s not an easy decision to make. This game, it’s tough … I feel like he’s at peace with this whole thing, and that’s all I care about.”
“It was emotional watching it, for me,” Ertz said via NJ.com. “Knowing him so personally and knowing how much he loves the game of football. To see him be so vulnerable, so open to everyone, to give the answers felt from the heart. I’m proud of him for sure.”
Ertz and Luck played together at Stanford for two-seasons, hooking up for 43 catches, 536 yards, and nine touchdowns. Ertz said their bond goes beyond football and confirmed Luck’s statement that the former Colts star has a ton interest outside of football that he’ll now pursue.
