On Wednesday night, a source close to linebacker Rolando McClain told PFT that McClain’s decision to retire was spurred by a desire to clean up his personal life before thinking about getting back onto a football field.
On Thursday, McClain told the world the same exact thing. McClain released a statement to PFT and other media outlets on Thursday explaining why he told the Ravens he was retiring.
“Clearly, my decision to retire has raised some questions,” McClain said in the statement. “Quite simply, I love football, but I have decided at this time it is in my best interest to focus on getting my personal life together. Beyond that, I’m not sure what the future holds for me, including football. This was entirely my decision and the Ravens have been very supportive during this process. I am very grateful for the opportunity they gave me and wish them the best of luck in the future. God willing, maybe I’ll play for them one day.”
The Ravens placed McClain on the Reserve/Retired list, so they will hold onto his rights while the linebacker takes care of his personal life. Should he resolve the legal cases still pending against him and avoid any further additions to his rap sheet, it seems like a pretty good bet that the 23-year-old will turn back to the game he says he loves at some point in the future.