NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Former Titans running back DeMarco Murray is retiring from the NFL.
Murray, who played two seasons with the Titans, made the announcement on ESPN's NFL Live on Friday while in studio.
Murray, 30, joined the Titans prior to the 2016 season, and he ran for 659 yards and six touchdowns last season on 184 carries. The seven-year pro carried the ball 293 times for 1,287 yards and nine touchdowns in 2016, when he played in his third career Pro Bowl.
"It's been a long time thinking, the last year or two, and physically, mentally and emotionally, I think it's time for me to hang it up," Murray said while making his announcement Friday on ESPN.
"It's bittersweet, but for I think me it's the right timing for myself and my family moving forward. ... I've always heard the saying, 'When you know, you know, and one day that day will come.' And for me it's been the last year or two. I've been constantly thinking about this. Working out still, in great shape, feel great, and it's time. It's time for me."
When Murray was released from the Titans in March, Titans general manager Jon Robinson praised the three-time Pro Bowler.
"I want to thank DeMarco for his contributions as a Titan, not only for what he did on the field but also in the locker room and in the community," Robinson said. "He was a pro in every facet and we wish him and his family the best moving forward."
In his two seasons with the team, Murray helped change the culture in the locker room at Saint Thomas Sports Park. He held teammates accountable, and showed leadership and professionalism with his work ethic and approach.
Murray, who played his first four seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and then spent a season in Philadelphia, dealt with a number of injuries during the course of the 2017 season, when second-year running back Derrick Henry took on a bigger workload. Murray missed the regular season finale against the Jaguars with a knee injury, and he didn't suit up in playoff games against the Chiefs and Patriots.
In seven NFL seasons, Murray ran for 7,174 yards and 49 touchdowns on 1,604 carries. He also caught 307 passes for 2,165 yards and six touchdowns.
TitansOnline.com looks back at RB DeMarco Murray's 2016 Pro Bowl season. (AP Photos)
