Telvin Smith tells fans there is more to life than just football

Jacksonville Jaguars outside linebacker Telvin Smith posted a statement Thursday afternoon on his Instagram account saying he would not play football in 2019 because he needed to take time off for his family and his health. He did not rule out a return in 2020 and said that when he does decide to retire, he wants to do it in Jacksonville.

“Why is it so crazy I want to step away from the game?” Smith said. “Y’all just chill. Everything’s solid, you feel me? Stop going crazy. It’s getting aggravating. You feel me? Football ain’t everything. Y’all better wake the f— up.”

Smith told the world he would be taking a year off a few days ago, and it seems like fans are ridiculing him for his decision so he wanted to respond.

This is what Smith put in his initial post:

“It was said to me from a great coach, that in order for the man to be his best, he must get his world in order,” Smith’s post read. “At this time I must take time away from this game & get my world in order. I must give this time back to myself, my family, & my health. I appreciate the support I will & will not get. I just ask y’ all respect my decision to not play football this season. I know the rumors of trade talk came about, but I started my career in Jacksonville & the day I do decide [sic] to call it quits it will be right here in Duval. I love y’ all & even in my time off its #10toesdwn ya feel me!!! Love!”

I do not know what is going on, but this is a huge blow to the Jaguars defense. Add in the fact that Smith does in fact need to take care of his personal situation if he cannot play ball and work on it at the same time. Mental toughness is huge in football, and you want a player focused on the game one hundred percent.