IRVING, Texas — Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Josh Brent has officially retired for the second time in the past two years after he attempted a comeback following five months in jail for an intoxication manslaughter charge in the December 2012 death of teammate Jerry Brown Jr.
The Cowboys officially placed Brent, 27, on their reserved/retired list Friday, the first day of their three-day rookie mini-camp at Valley Ranch.
Brent retired for the first time in July 2013 as more of a strategic move to keep the NFL from coming down hard on him before his trial for intoxication manslaughter in January 2014.
Brent spent five months in jail last year before rejoining the Cowboys on Sept. 29 to begin working out with the team at Valley Ranch. Brent missed the first 10 games last season while suspended but took part in team meetings and worked out with his teammates beginning in late September.
Brent returned for his first game in Week 14 at Chicago last season on Dec. 4 and had three tackles. That was the only game Brent played in last season. He injured his calf in a practice a week after he played in his first game.
Brent provided the following statement upon his retirement.
“It is with careful consideration, much thought and reflection that today I announce my retirement from the NFL. I have not taken this decision lightly, as my time in the NFL and as a member of the Dallas Cowboys has been the opportunity of a lifetime. Two of the greatest institutions in sports are the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys and I am humbled, honored and blessed to have been a part of both.
“I have made the decision that football isn’t as much of a priority in my life as other things at this time. I would like to (thank) the Dallas Cowboys, Jerry and Stephen Jones, the Jones family, my teammates, Jason Garrett and all of the coaches and the entire staff of the Cowboys for everything that they have done for me since I was drafted out of the University of Illinois in 2010.
“I also want to thank all of the Dallas Cowboys fans everywhere for their unyielding and loyal support, they are the greatest fans in professional sports. I will endeavor my best to make the Dallas Cowboys and their fans proud as I embark on this new journey in my life.”
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