Seahawks DE Patrick Kerney announced retirement from the NFL this season, despite wanting to continue playing.
"The toll that has been taken on my body will no longer allow me to train, and hence, perform, at a level that is acceptable to me," Kerney said.
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Kerney spent the last three seasons with the Seahawks after playing eight years for the Falcons.
The 6-5 defensive end joined Seattle in free agency and led the NFC in sacks in 2007 with 14.5. After his best season in the NFL, Kerney declined due to mounting injuries.
With Kerney out, Seattle presumed starting DEs are Lawrence Jackson and possibly second year man Nick Reed. Head coach Pete Carroll will allow several other players, including LB Aaron Curry, to play as a stand-up defensive ends.
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