Phil Costa Explains His Abrupt Retirement

Costa signed a two-year deal with the Colts less than a month ago, but retired on Monday

Former Dallas Cowboys center Phil Costa says it was a concern for his long-term physical well-being that inspired his decision to abruptly announce his retirement on Monday, less than a month after signing a two-year deal to compete for a starting job with the Indianapolis Colts.

Costa is just 26, and he won’t be 27 until July.

“Unfortunately, the day-to-day physical rigor of the NFL season has taken a toll on my body and has been a driving force behind my decision,” Costa said in a statement released by his agent on Tuesday, per the Dallas Morning News.

Costa went on to thank his former teams, teammates and coaches.

“As I look forward to the next chapter of my life, I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have played in the league,” he said.

In his four seasons with the Cowboys, Costa started 20 games, including all 16 in 2011.

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