Northwestern senior DL Sean McEvilly retires
One of Northwestern’s most experienced defensive linemen is retiring from football.
The program announced Wednesday morning that Sean McEvilly, a sixth-year senior, is retiring due to “chronic orthopedic issues.”
McEvilly played in 19 games for the Wildcats from 2011-13, including 13 starts, and totaled 29 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss. McEvilly missed the entire 2014 season due to a foot injury and was granted a sixth year of eligibility in 2015. Unfortunately, he won’t be able to suit up for the Wildcats this fall.
“This has been an extremely difficult conclusion for Sean to reach, and it is the best one for him right now and for the long-term,” head coach Pat Fitzgerald said in a release. “He’s been an outstanding leader and mentor for his teammates whether on or off the field the last several years, and will continue to be a big part of this team. It’s been a privilege watching him develop as a young man, he has a tremendously bright future ahead of him.”
McEvilly, a former Academic All-Big Ten selection, already graduated from Northwestern with a degree in economics and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in management studies.
“It’s disappointing to not be on the field opening camp this week, but this is the right decision not just for my health and future, but for the team,” said McEvilly. “I’m so thankful for the teammates and coaches I’ve competed alongside, and the opportunity I’ve had at Northwestern over the last five years. I can’t begin to express my gratitude to my parents for helping me reach this point. I will leave here as a two-time graduate of this university and will always be a Wildcat.”
The 6-foot-5, 300-pound McEvilly was expected to be a steady presence in the interior of the defensive line for the Wildcats.
For more Northwestern news, visit WildcatReport.com.
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Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
