Louisville Football: Former Cards in the pros on the move this offseason

Eric Wood – Center

Offseason move: Retirement** from football (Eric Wood has not officially retired, but will not play again due to injury)

2016-17 statistics: 16 games played, 16 games started

The NFL career of 9 year veteran Eric Wood came to an abrupt end this January, just a few weeks after his team was knocked out of the playoffs. There was no warning, no signs of injury, but just like that, one of the NFL’s best offensive lineman announced that he was stepping away.

On January 26th Eric Wood tweeted out the following message:

"“I was diagnosed with a neck injury as part of my season-ending physical with the Bills. After consultation with Dr. Cappuccino and other physicians, I was informed that I was no longer cleared to play football, even with surgery or further treatment.”"

Thankfully Eric’s injury was caught before it affected his long-term health off the football field, but you never wish to see one of the greatest have to walk away from the game like this.

Wood has been a mainstay in the NFL for years, playing for the Bills since 2009 after being drafted in the first round. The veteran center was named to two pro bowls (2015 & 2018, although he didn’t play this time around) and his leadership and performance was a huge reason the Bills were able to break their playoff drought this past season.

The outpouring of love from both Bills Mafia and CardNation was incredible to see. Though he will no longer take the field, Eric will hold a special place in the hearts of both fan bases. His impact goes far beyond football

BRL wishes the best to Eric Wood!