Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Brad Butler has informed the team that he will retire.
Butler, 26, was a fifth-round pick out of Virginia in the 2006 draft, where he was the college teammate and bookend of current Jet D'Brickashaw Ferguson. During his four-year career, Butler started 31 games on Buffalo's offensive line, including the last two at right tackle. He also dealt with injuries throughout his career, missing a large portion of his rookie season as well as ending the 2009 season on Injured Reserve after just two games.
He leaves the team after signing a three-year, $8.8 million contract extension in June of 2008. Butler, according to his statement listed on the Bills' team website, will now pursue interests in "education, country and community."
This is a quality individual, folks, and the team will miss him not only as a player on the field, but as a person in the locker room. Best of luck, Mr. Butler.