An NFL tight end with roots in Windsor-Essex has changed his mind about coming back to the team where he started his career.
The Seattle Seahawks confirmed Tuesday afternoon that LaSalle native Luke Willson has signed on for a third tour of duty with that franchise. The following afternoon, Willson said he has instead chosen to retire.
"After signing with the Seahawks yesterday, I have decided to walk away from the game of football," Willson wrote in a letter posted to his social media accounts. "After reflecting on everything yesterday and being in the building, I have decided that it's time for me to begin with the next chapter of my life," he wrote.
In his letter to his fans, Willson mentioned he struggled with some health complications during the off-season which resulted in him being hospitalized with pericardial effusion, a buildup of extra fluid in the space around the heart. He added his health scare changed him and his perspective on many aspects of his life.
Also in his statement, the 31-year-old football star gave a shout out his hometown LaSalle and thanked the community of Windsor-Essex for helping him achieve his goals.
"The opportunities I was given throughout my childhood gave me a chance to dream and one day make that dream a reality," he penned. "I have always tried my best to be a true representation of the characteristics that make up our area. I hope I've made your proud."
Willson was first drafted by the Seahawks in 2013. He appeared in two Super Bowls with the Seahawks, winning one of them.
In 2019, the Oakland Raiders signed Willson but cut him before the season started, and he later returned to the Seahawks. He began the 2020 season with Seattle before being released in November.
Willson attended St. Thomas of Villanova High School in LaSalle and was named to the all-conference football team three times. He played his college ball at Rice University.
https://twitter.com/LWillson_82/status/1430625755545755648