5 Reasons Why Retirement Is The Right Move For Rashard Mendenhall

By Jack Delaney

Rashard Mendenhall: Why Retirement Is The Right Move

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals — It may seem strange to some NFL fans that a running back who has only played six seasons would retire, but Rashard Mendenhall is making the right decision. From winning a Super Bowl to scoring 13 touchdowns in a season, the former Arizona Cardinals' running back has done it all. Here are five reasons why retirement is the right move for Rashard Mendenhall.

5. Loss Of Role

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals

5. Loss of Role

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals — Bruce Arians, the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, recently stated that he wanted to build the offense around running back Andre Ellington. While Mendenhall would still be involved in the offense if he was re-signed, his role would be drastically diminished.

4. Injury History

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals

4. Injury History

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals — From shoulder injuries to ACL tears, Mendenhall has faced some physical punishment during his years in the NFL. He may be worried that his next injury could affect his life outside of football.

3. He Knows When To Stop

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals

3. He Knows When To Stop

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals — We all cringe when we see athletes playing who are far past their prime. If Mendenhall feels like he needs to stop playing at this point of his life, who are we to judge him? If he thinks that he needs to leave the NFL, then that is what he needs to do.

2. Pursuit Of New Opportunities

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals

2. Pursuit Of New Opportunities

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals — Mendenhall has an interest in writing poetry, so retirement will allow him to pursue his passions. Athletes should use their fame as a platform to other ventures when they retire, and that is exactly what Mendenhall is doing.

1. Already Has A Super Bowl Ring

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals

1. Already Has A Super Bowl Ring

Rashard Mendenhall Arizona Cardinals — Other than money, a Super Bowl ring is the most prized possession in the NFL. Since Mendenhall already has one, what else does he have to play for?

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