Quarterback Darian Durant announces his retirement

Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback Darian Durant is retiring.

Durant announced his decision on his website www.dariandurant.com early Friday morning.

Here’s the statement:

Durant played 12 years in the CFL, primarily with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He threw for 31,740 yards and 167 touchdowns in 174 games (128 starts) and currently sits 14^th all-time in league passing yards. He played in three Grey Cup games with the Riders, winning the 101st edition in Regina in 2013.

But the 35-year-old struggled with the Montreal Alouettes last season, winning just three times in 15 starts and throwing 16 interceptions against 15 touchdowns. He was released by the club in January – on the eve of a $150,000 roster bonus – and signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He was suspected to serve as the primary back up to Matt Nichols this season.