Billy Price, a former first-round NFL Draft pick and one of the league’s top centers, has been forced to retire at the age of 29 after emergency surgery to remove a blood clot
Former NFL star Billy Price has announced retirement at 29 due to health concerns. Price was a rare sight for a centre, picked in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Cincinatti Bengals out of Ohio State.
His time in the NFL saw him play for the Bengals (2018 – 2019), New York Giants (2020), Arizona Cardinals (2023) and short stints with the Raiders (offseason/practise squad) and the New Orleans Saints and Dallas Cowboys before retiring.
Price made the announcement in an emotional statement released on social media. He said: “In the blink of an eye, everything can be taken away. On April 24th I had emergency pulmonary embolism surgery to remove a saddle clot that was entering both of my lungs.
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“As a healthy 29-year-old, an unprovoked pulmonary embolism with no further medical explanation is terrifying. I am truly thankful to be alive today. Unfortunately, I will be retiring from the NFL as the risk of an internal bleed while on blood thinners creates tremendous risk.
“I am truly thankful for the opportunity to have played in some of the greatest atmospheres around the world. I am thankful to have trained and played alongside men who will continue to make Pro Bowls, All-Pro Rosters, and Hall of Fame recognitions.
“To my wife: this career would not have been possible without your continued love and support. The sacrifices you have made over the course of my career do not go unnoticed. I cannot wait to navigate the next chapter in life with you as we continue to grow our family.”
Throughout his professional career, Price started 45 games out of 69 appearances, playing for the Bengals, Giants, and Cardinals. He entered the league from Ohio State, where he was awarded the Rimington Trophy, recognising the nation’s top centre, in 2017.
Price is now looking forward to a peaceful retirement with his wife, Taylor, and their baby boy. Recently, he posted a heartwarming photo with his wife and son under the northern lights.
“It’s always been my dream to see the northern lights, I cannot believe they were in our backyard! What a surreal experience! I will cherish these moments, making memories as a family, forever! ” exclaimed his wife Taylor.