Injuries force Stampeders linebacker Deron Mayo to retire

Calgary Stampeders linebacker Deron Mayo has announced his retirement.

The 30-year-old, who played six seasons with Calgary, has struggled to return from a torn ACL he suffered in October of 2016 and played in just one game last season before requiring a second surgery.

“After 18 months of rehab and many setbacks along the way, I feel that it’s in my family’s best interest to walk away and focus on life after football,” Mayo said in a statement released by the club. “I am grateful to all who have helped me along the way and for those who continue to motivate me throughout this process.”

Mayo played in 87 games for Calgary, making 277 tackles and 33 special teams tackles and was the team’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2015. He won a Grey Cup with the team in 2014.