Wisconsin TE Clay Cundiff announces medical retirement from football

Wisconsin will have a player hang up the cleats before the season begins, with tight end Clay Cundiff officially announcing his medical retirement from the sport.

Cundiff had voluntarily left the team in the spring and does not currently appear on the Wisconsin official roster.

“After weeks of difficult contemplation, I have decided to medically retire from the game of football,” Cundiff wrote on Twitter. “I have proudly put pads and a jersey on since first grade, but now my body is begging to hang up my cleats.

“In my 15 years on the field I have endured multiple season-ending injuries, grueling surgeries, long hospital stays, many broken bones, concussions, slipped discs, you name it. I have fought back time and time again, always ready to get out on the field every September. But I cannot keep up with the physical demands of the game any more. I only have this one body and it is now my priority to protect it for my future.

“Thank you to Badger Nation for your love and support these past four years! Wisconsin has been very good to me and I am forever proud to be a Badger!”

In two seasons with the Badgers in 2021 and 2022, Cundiff logged 12 catches for 228 yards and three touchdowns.

Clay Cundiff sends teammates a message

In addition to the message about his medical retirement, Clay Cundiff also had a message for his former teammates.

“You fellas know how demanding this game is and how much work goes on behind the scenes,” Cundiff wrote. “I have always put my body on the line for the man next to me. I never thought twice about that. But as the injuries have piled up, I cannot give my all between those white lines anymore. I’m at peace walking away from the game, and I know that our friendships will remain long after this. I love each and every one of you and wish you ultimate success.

“Thank you to ever player who stood beside me, to every coach who helped shape me, the trainers and medical staff for all the rehab, and to my family for lifting me up every time I have fallen. The game of football has given me friendships and experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life, and for this I am so grateful. #OnWisconsin”