One of the most likable Buffalo Bills players in recent years has decided to retire from the NFL.  Former Bills linebacker John DiGiorgio announced on his facebook page recently that he’s leaving the NFL behind and taking a high school teaching position in his home state of Michigan.

“I just wanna say thank you to everyone that has ever supported me throughout my career,” DiGiorgio said.  “I’ve done everything I could in therapy to try to get my knee healthy and get back and play the game I love most. Unfortunately I fell a bit short. I recently decided to retire from the NFL and gladly accept a teaching and a coaching job at Chippewa Valley High School. Thanks for all the support, Go Bills!”

DiGiorgio was an undrafted free agent the Bills signed out of Saginaw Valley State in 2006.  He played with the team from 2006-08, mostly as a reserve and special team performer.

In 2007 he started most the season after rookie linebacker Paul Posluszny broke his arm against the New England Patriots in week three.  DiGiorgio finished with 113 tackles, two sacks, two fumble recoveries and an interception.

His tackle total was second-highest on the team.

His season was cut short in 2008 after tearing ligaments in his right knee while playing special teams against San Diego in week seven. It would be the last time he ever played.

He was released from the team in June of 2009 after not being able to pass a physical.  DiGiorgio trained hard to get back into NFL playing shape but ultimately his knee wouldn’t cooperate.

We wish him the best of luck on his teaching and coaching career.  He’ll surely be remembered as a hard working, likeable blue collar guy in the Buffalo Bills community.