NFL star retires midway through the season as coach makes statement

Seattle Seahawks centre has made the shocking decision to retire from at just 27 years old.

His decision comes barely 11 months after a severe knee injury cut short his 2023 season with the . They had placed Williams on injured reserve in December 2023 due to the ACL tear he sustained in a game against the Tennessee Titans.

He subsequently joined in August, signing a one-year contract worth £4.8million ($6m). On Friday, Coach Mike Macdonald confirmed Williams' retirement, citing "personal reasons" unrelated to any lingering issues from his knee injury, as reported by .

Despite the surprising nature of Williams' decision, Macdonald said he believes he won't be U-turning. "We're honouring his wishes," the 37-year-old explained. "And we'll keep all those reasons and conversations private for obvious reasons and wish him the best."

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Williams had been a key player in the Seahawks' lineup this season, with Seattle boasting a 4-5 record so far. Macdonald revealed that he only became aware of Williams' consideration to leave the sport this week. "It's been a process throughout the week," he continued, adding that certain aspects of their conversation would remain private due to the personal nature of what Williams is dealing with.

Williams made his debut in 2018 when he joined the and will therefore benefit from an retirement plan, which becomes fully vested after three seasons. He played two seasons for the Dolphins before joining Seattle as a late free-agent addition. Prior to his pro career, he was a star at the University of Texas.

His sudden retirement comes just days ahead of a crucial match against the San Francisco 49ers. Upcoming fixtures include a November 24 showdown with the Arizona Cardinals and a December 1 visit to MetLife Stadium to face the New York Jets.

A win against the Niners is crucial if the team hopes to turn their season around, having only secured one victory in their last six games. They kicked off the season on a high note with three consecutive wins against the Baltimore Ravens, Washington Commanders, and Los Angeles Rams.

Olu Oluwatimi, who joined the Seahawks in 2023, will step into Williams' shoes as centre. Oluwatimi played college football for the Virginia Cavaliers and the Michigan Wolverines. Jalen Sundell, who came to Seattle as an undrafted free agent, will serve as backup to Oluwatimi. Sundell honed his skills playing college football at North Dakota State.

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