Steelers' Markus Golden Announces Retirement

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Markus Golden was the No. 58 overall pick in the 2015 draft out of the University of Missouri by the Arizona Cardinals. His only season in Pittsburgh was last season, but coach Mike Tomlin and company brought him back earlier in camp.

On Wednesday, the 33-year-old officially announced his retirement from the NFL in an Instagram post.

“Football has always been more than just a sport to me,” Golden said. “I’ve officially retired from the NFL after playing the game I’ve loved all my life. I feel truly blessed to have been able to live out the dreams and goals I set for myself as a kid.

“A Big thank you to God, my family, friends, St. Louis, Matthew Dickey Boys & Girls Club, Affton, Hutchinson Community College, Mizzou, The Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers for giving me the opportunity to pursue my dreams. I’m also incredibly grateful to all the teammates and coaches I had the privilege to work with along the way.”

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Golden retires from the NFL having amassed 343 total tackles, 68 tackles for loss, and 51 sacks in 127 career games over nine years.

“To all the incredible fans,” Golden concluded, “Thank You! Your passion and energy fueled me, and I’m grateful for each and every one of you.”