I've let a lot of things go, and obviously football is one of them. I think the hardest thing to let go is your self-image. That's what I'm working on now.

I realized a while back that I have an innate ability to be compassionate, and I saw that the strength of compassion is something that healers have and healers use.'

I have no room in my life for any form of negativity or nonacceptance.

I do feel like a loner but I think it's because I look at things differently than other people.

I stepped away to find out more about myself, which I was having difficulty doing as a football player. I got a chance to travel the world. I studied Eastern philosophy, and I've grown as a person so much.

One thing I've learned about life is that if you really let go, it's just a joy ride.

My helmet is off; I'm not afraid anymore.