Former Roughriders safety Tyron Brackenridge announces retirement

REGINA – Former Saskatchewan safety Tyron Brackenridge announced his retirement Thursday, ending a pro career that included a five-season run with the Roughriders and a Grey Cup title in 2013.

The 31-year-old native of Pasadena, Calif., played in 75 regular-season games with the Riders after joining the team in October 2011. He became a free agent after his release last December.

“The decision to retire from the game I love is truly bittersweet,” Brackenridge said in a CFL news release. “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.”

Over his CFL career, Brackenridge had 254 defensive tackles, 18 special teams tackles, 10 interceptions and four sacks. He was a CFL all-star in 2013 and 2014.

“On behalf of the Roughriders, I want to congratulate Tyron on a remarkable career,” said Jeremy O’Day, the Riders’ vice-president of football operations and administration. “You could always count on Tyron for his work ethic, intensity, and overall will to win.”

Brackenridge started his pro career in 2007 when he signed as a free agent with the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs.