Former Cardinals LB Kylie Fitts announces retirement due to concussions

Linebacker Kylie Fitts appeared in six regular-season games with the Arizona Cardinals during the 2021 campaign but last played in October, per Pro-Football-Reference, and spent the remainder of the season on injured reserve due to a concussion. 

Fitts hit free agency when the new NFL year opened last month but will not be signing with any club at any point down the road. 

According to Bob McManaman of The Arizona Republic, Fitts announced via Instagram on Friday he's retiring after suffering multiple concussions during his football career. 

"After 21 years of playing, football has come to an end for me," the 27-year-old wrote. "Due to too many concussions and the severity of my recent one, it is no longer safe for me to continue to play. I am so grateful for this game and everything it has taught and brought into my life. Thank you to all my coaches and teammates throughout my career. I am also so thankful for my family and wife who have supported me through all the up’s and downs and special thank you to my dad.

"(He) spent countless hours, early mornings and late nights helping me reach my goal of always wanting to play in the NFL. I believe we were created beyond just playing the game. I know God has great plans for me and my family and I’m so excited for what he has in store for me next!" 

Fitts first entered the NFL when the Chicago Bears selected him in the sixth round of the 2018 draft but spent the past three seasons linked with the Cardinals. Across 22 games during his Arizona tenure, he tallied 15 total tackles and a single forced fumble.