Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz, a former All-Pro, has announced he is retiring from the NFL due to complications of a lingering injury.
Schwartz, 33, started 134 straight games before injuring his back in October 2020.
He underwent surgery the following February and sat out last season while undergoing rehabilitation.
On Thursday, he confirmed he has decided to call it a day, but has no regrets over the decision.
"I'm currently feeling as good as I have since then, but it’s clear my body won’t ever be the same," Schwartz said on Twitter.
"The nerve pain down my legs is no longer a daily occurrence, but it might never fully go away."
Schwartz was a second-round draft choice by the Cleveland Browns in 2012 and was an opening-day starter, beginning a streak of 7,894 consecutive snaps played.
That streak continued into his career with the Chiefs, with whom he signed as a free agent in 2016.
Schwartz was named to the All-Pro First Team in 2018 and was named a second-team All-Pro three times, in 2016, 2017, 2019.
With Schwartz starting at right tackle, the Chiefs amassed a 51-19 regular-season record and hoisted the Lombardi Trophy after winning Super Bowl LIV against the San Francisco 49ers in February 2020.
"I've enjoyed so much about my time in the NFL and am walking away feeling very fulfilled," Schwartz's statement continued.
"Winning the Super Bowl was the pinnacle of my career. My 7,894 consecutive snaps streak and four All-Pro nominations are my proudest individual accomplishments, far exceeding my own expectations."
Schwartz thanked his wife Brooke for making his career possible, along with multiple coaches and mentors, but his praise of Andy Reid was gushing.
"[Reid] is the best coach you can ask for and an even better person. It was a privilege to sit in those meetings and hear him speak. It is special being a part of his offense and football team," he said.
Schwartz said that he will continue to produce his "Mitch in the Kitch" video series, which airs on multiple platforms, and plans to continue living in Kansas City.
"My last thank you is to Kansas City and all the Chiefs fans," Schwartz said. "It has been a privilege to represent you on and off the field.
"The bond I've formed with this city and the people here lasts forever."