Ex-Jet Matt Slauson has called it a career.
The 32-year announced his retirement on Instagram Wednesday after nine seasons in the NFL. He began his career with three seasons in New York before moving on to the Bears, Chargers and Colts. His time with Indianapolis was unfortunately short-lived after he suffered a scary spine injury in October.
“Four organizations and countless friendships,” Slauson wrote. “What an amazing dream this has all been. Thanks to all my teammates who have gone into battle with me, the group of coaches that have made me better on and off the field, the fans that were there no matter what, and especially my wife and kids who supported me through it all. It has been a very difficult decision but we are excited for what the next chapter holds.”
Slauson, a Nebraska product, was drafted in the sixth round by the Jets in 2009. He played both guard and center for New York and started all but three possible games for the Jets. Not bad for a late-round pick.
This past season with the Colts could have been life-changing for Slauson. After being placed on injured reserve, he learned that he had been playing with two broken vertebrae. Doctors told him he was one play away from being paralyzed.
Fortunately, that didn’t happen. Instead, Slauson is now walking away from football with his long-term health intact after a surprising but successful career.
