No, if ands or doubts about it…. This one is a shocker. On Friday afternoon the University of Wisconsin announced that senior defensive end David Gilbert is retiring from football due to reoccuring foot injuries. Here are the words of Gilbert himself in making this announcement:
“This was a difficult decision for me but I have had multiple injuries and surgeries on my foot and feel that no longer playing at UW is the best decision for me,” Gilbert said. “I have been dealing with pain in my foot since the injury first occurred and I just need to give it time to fully heal.
“I’ve had a tremendous experience at the University of Wisconsin and will graduate in May. Playing in the Rose Bowl is something I will never forget and a memory I will always cherish. I want to thank all my coaches I’ve had at UW, the former staff for what they did for me as a player and person and the new staff for helping me work through this tough decision. I also want to thank all my teammates and wish them the best next year and in the future.
“I understand this is an abrupt announcement but this will be the only comment I have on my decision. To all the Badger fans out there, thank you for all the support throughout the years. It’s been a pleasure sharing this journey with you.”
To say this is a blow to the Badgers changing defensive front seven is an understatement and no doubt comes with a lot of thought and a heavy heart for Gilbert. What did coach Anderson have to say about the loss of one of the potentially more potent outside pass rushers?
“David’s decision was part of an on-going discussion we have had for a number of weeks,” head coach Gary Andersen said in the statement released by the school. “I would have loved the opportunity to coach David but we always want to do what’s in the best interests of the young man. He needs a year to recover from his injuries and focus on graduating. It is always tough when a young man’s college career comes to an end due to an injury but David knows we are here to support him in any way necessary.”
Gilbert leaves the Badgers after having his most productive season as a member of the cardinal and white in 2012, where he recorded career highs in tackles (42), tackles for loss (9.5), sacks (4), and fumbles caused (3). He was expected to compete for the outside linebacker spot in the Badgers new 3-4 defense but hasn't be a participant this spring.
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