Shane Lemieux, a fifth-round selection by the New York Giants in the 2020 NFL draft, announced his retirement from professional football on Tuesday at age 28.The former Oregon offensive lineman cited persistent injuries as the primary reason for stepping away after six NFL seasons. Lemieux underwent five surgeries and spent more time in rehabilitation than on the field, ultimately choosing to protect his long-term health.Selected 150th overall, Lemieux appeared in 25 games and made 16 starts during his career. He began with the Giants, where he started a career-high nine contests as a rookie, before brief stints with the New Orleans Saints and Seattle Seahawks.
He earned a Super Bowl ring as a practice-squad member with the Seahawks earlier this year.In his announcement, Lemieux reflected on his journey."After graduating from the University of Oregon and being drafted by the New York Giants, I had dreams of a 10+ year, All-Pro career. I believed I could get there. But after (five) surgeries and more time in the training room than on the field, the game started to look different to me.
That is why I am deciding to step away with the health that I have," he wrote."While I didn't achieve that goal, the lessons I learned through the injuries, the releases, and finally getting back on the field mean more to me going forward than any accolade ever could have. And the relationships built along the way have been the most impactful of all."I am thankful for the game. I've dedicated my life to football, and it has rewarded me immensely. But I've always seen myself as more than a football player, and I'm ready to show the world just that."Lemieux closed with, "Stay tuned for what's next."This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Former New York Giants draft pick retires at 28 years old