KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs safety Husain Abdullah retired after seven seasons Monday, joining the growing list of players who have walked away from the NFL because of health concerns.
Husain had his fifth concussion this season, which sidelined him for five weeks. The 30-year-old player returned to help Kansas City beat Houston for its first postseason victory in more than two decades.
“There are numerous factors in my decision with personal health being foremost,” Abdullah wrote on Instagram. “I had a lot to contemplate. My goals moving forward are to be of benefit to my family, my community, my country and hopefully the world. Having a sound mind will be vital to accomplishing these goals.”
The Chiefs appeared to know weeks ago that Abdullah was leaning toward retirement, moving quickly to place the franchise tag on Eric Berry. They also have safeties Ron Parker and Daniel Sorenson on the roster, and coach Andy Reid indicated last week that Jamell Fleming would move over from cornerback.
Abdullah joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Washington State, and spent four productive seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. He left in his prime to make a pilgrimage to Mecca, then returned after one season to earn a roster spot during training camp with the Chiefs.
He proved to be a dependable safety for Kansas City the past three seasons.
“After sitting out of football to fulfill my Hajj pilgrimage in 2012, the Chiefs were the first to call,” Abdullah said. “The three years I spent playing for KC may have been the most enjoyable football experience in my entire life.”
Numerous productive players have indicated plans to retire this offseason, including Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson and Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo. Many of them have cited their long-term health as one reason behind their decisions.