Tennessee Titans linebacker Brian Orakpo has officially announced his retirement from the NFL after 10 seasons in the league.
The Titans weren't able to hold off the Indianapolis Colts in Sunday night's matchup at Nissan Stadium, which eliminated Mike Vrabel's team from playoff contention.
Now, a day after the regular season, Orakpo has made his decision on his future crystal clear in choosing to step away from football after an incredible career.
Brian Orakpo has announced his retirement.
Thank you, @rak98! #TitanUp pic.twitter.com/Jywp1lW20L
— Tennessee Titans (@Titans) December 31, 2018
Titans beat reporter Jim Wyatt shared Orakpo's thoughts on retirement after the announcement was made.
.@rak98 said it's a bittersweet day. He's proud of his career, but he'll miss the game, and his teammates. Will concentrate on raising kids and being a better father and husband, he said @Titans
— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) December 31, 2018
Orakpo started his career with the Washington Redskins back in 2009 after starring at Texas, where he earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors in addition to helping the Longhorns win a national championship in 2005.
He joined the Titans in 2015 and immediately became a top playmaker on defense, as he registered numerous tackles and sacks during his four years with the franchise.
As for the Titans, they'll certainly need to fill Orakpo's spot this offseason, and that will likely be easier said than done.
Another key priority for Tennessee will be the quarterback position, which may center around getting starting quarter Marcus Mariota completely healed after he was forced to miss the regular season finale due to injury.
The Titans were unable to get back to the playoffs after earning a surprising victory over the Kansas City Chiefs last season, but with some tweaks here and there, they should have an opportunity to be back in the mix once again in 2019.
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