Shockingly walking away from millions of dollars, free agent linebacker Jason Worilds released a statement late Tuesday night through his representative, Jason Bernstein, announcing the former Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher is retiring from football.

“I appreciate all of the interest from the organizations that have reached out to us the past few days,” the statement read. “With that being said, after much thought and consideration I have chosen to step away from football as I have opted to pursue other interests.

“I am especially grateful of the opportunity to play before some of the greatest fans in football today. Despite any concern and speculation that may ensue, I appreciate those that are respectful of my decision.”

Worilds, 27, became a free agent when the Steelers decided not to use the transition tag on him in late February. Last spring, the Steelers retained Worilds with the transition tag, and he earned $9,754,000 in 2014. He finished with 7.5 sacks and his first career interception last year.

Over the past two seasons, his 15.5 sacks top the team.

In five seasons with Pittsburgh since he was a second-round pick in 2010 out of Virginia Tech, Worilds has 25.5 sacks and 204 tackles in 73 games (37 starts).

Worilds joins 30-year-old linebacker Patrick Willis and 26-year-old quarterback Jake Locker as players who made surprise retirement announcements in recent days.