TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Paralyzed former Rutgers defensive tackle Eric LeGrand has announced his retirement from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
LeGrand signed a symbolic contract in May with the Bucs, who are now coached by his former college coach, Greg Schiano. He said Thursday that while he will be a “Buc for life” that he no longer wanted to occupy a roster spot that could be used for another player.
LeGrand broke two vertebrae and suffered a serious spinal cord injury in October 2010 during a kickoff return against Army. He became an inspiration to his college teammates, eventually being able to stand upright with the help of a metal frame.
He resumed his studies via video conferences in 2011 and last fall led the Scarlet Knights onto the field before a game. The contract he signed with the Bucs had no monetary value.
