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Orchard Park, NY (WGR 550) -- One of the longest-tenured Buffalo Bills has called it a career. After 10 seasons with the team, defensive end Chris Kelsay has informed the Bills that he will retire from the National Football League.
Kelsay, 33, cited a few different reasons to end his days as a player in the NFL.
"It is something that has been kind of on our minds for a couple months really," he said on a conference call. "My wife and I discussed different options really since the neck injury. Other factors weighed into the overall decision. I just felt like as much as I kind of went back-and-forth on it, I believe if you are thinking about retirement that much you are already retired. I am happy with the decision that we made. I look forward to the next chapter of my life."
A second round pick out of Nebraska in 2003, Kelsay never saw the postseason at any point in his career. That's something that the defensive end said was a major disappointment.
"It is something that is frustrating. Something that we did not achieve as a team," he remarked. "Obviously the goal was to make the playoffs and to contend for a championship. In my 10 years here we were unable to do that. It is a tough pill to swallow, but it is one that I am willing to swallow and move on."
Through the team's press release, GM Buddy Nix glowed about Kelsay both as a player and an individual.
“Chris has been the consummate professional throughout his career and we will miss him," he started. "He always gave 100 percent, regardless of the situation and regardless of the score. He did everything with class and was an excellent team leader. Everyone in our organization from the players to the coaches to the front office personnel have the utmost respect for Chris. I know he will be successful in whatever he chooses to do next and I speak for everyone at One Bills Drive when I say that we wish him and his family nothing but the best.”
Throughout his career Kelsay played in 147 games, making 120 starts over the course of 10 years. He made 440 total tackles and racked up 32.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, three interceptions and two safeties.
Kelsay will reside in Nebraska with his wife Natalie, his daughters Harper and Avery and his son Rhett as he starts the next chapter in his life.
Having been good friends with former Bills defensive end Aaron Schobel in his time here, the long-time defensive end said he wouldn't treat his retirement the same way and reconsider a comeback in a few months.
"No. There is no way I am doing that."
Kelsay was due to count $4.975 million against the cap in 2013 and $4.995 million in 2014.
Twitter: @JoeBuscaglia