Associated Press
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. ó Seven-time New York Giants Pro Bowler Michael Strahan is staying retired.
“This has been one of the toughest nights of my life,” Strahan told FoxSports.com in a story released Tuesday afternoon. “But after long deliberation and throwing around a million scenarios in my head for the past day, I think it’s just best if I stay retired.”
Tony Agnone, Strahan’s agent, did not immediately return a telephone call from The Associated Press.
Giants spokesman Pat Hanlon had no immediate comment.
Giants general manager Jerry Reese has asked the 36-year-old Strahan to reconsider his retirement on Monday, just 48 hours after the Super Bowl champions lost Pro Bowl defensive end Osi Umenyiora for the season to a knee injury in the preseason game against the New York Jets.
Strahan needed just about a day to turn down an offer to return for a 16th season with what could have been an $8 million contract.
“I really love my life now,” he told FoxSports.com. “It’s great having nobody put a finger on me. You really put yourself through an awful lot in this league, more than people realize.
Strahan has signed a $2 million deal to work for Fox Sports on its NFL pregame show on Sundays.
The Giants moved Mathias Kiwanuka from linebacker to defensive end on Monday to take over for Umenyiora.
Umenyiora had successful knee surgery on Tuesday morning.