49ers C Weston Richburg announces retirement
San Francisco 49ers center Weston Richburg announced his retirement from the NFL on Wednesday.
Richburg, 29, sustained a torn right patellar tendon late in the 2019 season and sat out the 2020 campaign.
“I consider myself extremely blessed to have played in this league and am so grateful for the experiences over the last seven years,” Richburg said in a statement released by the 49ers. “Injuries are an unfortunate part of this game and I’ve reached a point where my body won’t allow me to continue playing and competing at a high level. I was able to play some good football all over the country and was fortunate enough to finish my career with the greatest franchise in sports.
“From top to bottom, the 49ers organization is comprised of some of the best men, women and athletes I’ve ever been around. To be just a small part of an NFC Championship and Super Bowl run is something I will never forget.”
Richburg signed a five-year, $47.5 million contract with the 49ers on March 15, 2018. He started all 28 games in which he appeared with the club.
“Weston was someone who made not only our offense, but our entire team better,” 49ers general manager John Lynch said in the statement. “He led by example through his detailed approach and the toughness in which he played the game. He was a tremendous player for our organization and will be missed both on the field and in the locker room.”
Richburg started 50 of the 51 games in which he appeared with the New York Giants, who selected him in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
The 49ers signed six-time Pro Bowl center Alex Mack to a three-year contract in March.
–Field Level Media
