REGINA — One of the CFL’s hardest-hitting defenders is hanging up his cleats, as former Saskatchewan Roughrider Tyron Brackenridge announced his retirement on Wednesday evening.
A 31-year-old Pasadena, Calif. native, Brackenridge spent five seasons with the Riders and played in 75 regular season games after originally joining the team in October of 2011. He leaves the game after becoming a free agent back in December following his sudden release.
“The decision to retire from the game I love is truly bittersweet,” noted Brackenridge, who eventually became a safety for the Riders after starting out as a linebacker. “I have been blessed to be able to play this game for the past 10 years, including five wonderful years with the Roughriders.
“I’m content with the decision and look forward to what lies ahead.”
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Brackenridge’s pro football career spans back to 2007, when he signed as a free agent with the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs. After signing with the Riders in 2011, he re-signed as a free agent in February, 2013. Later that year Brackenridge played a pivotal role in helping Saskatchewan win the 101st Grey Cup on home turf.
“On behalf of the Roughriders, I want to congratulate Tyron on a remarkable career,” stated Riders Vice-President of Football Operations and Administration Jeremy O’Day. “You could always count on Tyron for his work ethic, intensity, and overall will to win.
“Off the field,” O’Day added, “he took as much pride in being able to give back to the Province through community initiatives and spending countless hours with fans. He was an important part of the success we had as an entire organization.”
In his CFL career Brackenridge registered 254 defensive tackles, 18 special teams tackles, 10 interceptions, and four quarterback sacks on his way to picking up CFL All-Star selections in 2013 and 2014.
“I would like to give a special thanks to the CFL and particularly the Saskatchewan Roughriders organization,” added Brackenridge. “Last but not least, I want to send a special thanks to the amazing Rider Nation. Thank you all for making Saskatchewan my home away from home.”
Brackenridge currently resides in Riverside, Calif. with his wife Christine and daughter Brooklynn.
