PITTSBURGH — A little more than a week after Steelers captain Cam Heyward expressed optimism that his longtime teammate would return to Pittsburgh in 2022, defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt announced his retirement from football Wednesday.
Tuitt, who did not play last season following the sudden death of his brother Richard Barlett, broke the news himself via a statement from the organization.
“After the tragic loss of my brother Richard, and upon completing my degree from the University of Notre Dame, I know I am being called to move beyond the sport of football,” Tuitt said, per the team. “I want to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown both on and off the field, and again want to thank The Rooney Family, Coach [Mike] Tomlin and the entire Pittsburgh organization. It was an honor and a privilege to play for this historic team. Go Steelers.”