Colts out of 'Luck'
Retiring in the middle of his prime, Andrew Luck, made one of the most groundbreaking decisions in recent NFL history. There is no question of how important Andrew Luck was for the Indianapolis Colts franchise. So, the fans were understandably upset that their quarterback unexpectedly retired shortly before this season. However, his decision was made based on countless injuries which include torn cartilage in two ribs, partially torn abdomen, a lacerated kidney, one concussion, torn labrum, and a calf/ankle issue (Zak Keefer).
In my opinion, an NFL’s players health should be the number one concern of every franchise and player. Luck is not the first or last player to retire early because of health issues. Notable players like Barry Sanders, Bo Jackson, and Kurt Warner all retired early for their own reasons (Dan Van Wie). I believe Luck’s retirement will begin to encourage players to advocate for themselves and their greater wellbeing.
Now regarding the Colt’s fanbase’s behavior. Obviously, I believe their behavior of booing him as he came off the field was disgusting and disappointing. In their defense, I can understand that they are extremely emotional and worried about their favorite franchise. I hope that their booing was just an initial reaction, and the next time Luck walks into Lucas Oil Stadium, he might be met with applause and cheers.
Liam Meyer - Contributing Writer
I believe that Andrew luck is justified in retiring. It was not warranted at all for fans to boo Andrew Luck off the field for the last time.
He routinely led the Colts to the playoffs year by year with a supporting cast nowhere near as talented as those around other top quarterbacks such as Tom Brady and Drew Brees. A weak offensive line coupled with a dysfunctional front office were other contributing factors that led to Luck’s retirement.
The fact that the Colts front office did not value Luck enough to surround him with a strong offensive line shows he made the right decision.
The icing on the cake; however, was the negative reception Colts fans gave Andrew Luck as he left Lucas Oil Stadium for the last time. He was booed off of the field: disrespected by the same fans that supported him through the Colts’ numerous playoff runs. This shows that Luck made the right decision, as he will now be able to watch as the Colts fall to mediocrity and their fans wallow in the loss of their best player since Peyton Manning.
He will be able to spend more time with his family, avoiding inevitable life-altering injuries he would have sustained by playing alongside a porous offensive line.
Riley Dulin - Sports Editor