Devon Still, one of the footballs most beloved athletes, has officially announced his retirement. He broke the news to TMZ Sports on Thursday night (December 22), telling them that "He's ready for the next phase of his life."

In the video, he tells TMZ that "I have never wanted to be someone that gives up on her dream, but I don't want to be someone who chases their dream too long and misses out on other opportunities." There were a lot of talks back in October 2017, with Devon hinting that his football days might be coming to an end. Still was drafted in the 2013 NFL Draft, second round pick and later signed with Houston Texans and NY Jets, but was waived in 2007.

Devon made international headlines

Devon Still made international headlines in 2014, after his youngest daughter Leah was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma stage 4 cancer. He put his career on hold to focus on Leah, saying "She's fighting for her life. Sports is not more important than me being there while my daughter is fighting for her life."

He made it his priority to raise awareness towards the cause and help raise money for Cancer Research. He made several tv appearances with Leah on shows such as 'Ellen' and they raised a ton of money and were awarded ESPN's Jimmy V Perseverance Award in 2015. Leah has been cancer free now for over 2 years.

What's in store now for Devon?

Devon is now making the transition from athlete to charitable work by focusing on his foundation called the, 'Still Strong Foundation' that was established in 2015.The foundation focuses on providing aid to families with kids that are fighting cancer and raising millions of dollars for cancer research.

He will also become a public speaker and use the platform that he has for good, and bring awareness to this cause that his hit so close to home for him and his family. Both Devon and Leah have inspired millions with their story and journey.

In 2016, Leah stole the show at her fathers' wedding to step-mom Asha that was held at the NYC Public Library.

A battle that seemed hopeless years ago turned into a beautiful and meaningful journey. The five-year-old who is now in remission was the flower girl at her fathers' wedding and melted everyone's heart in front of 200 guests including NFL players. She toasted her father and thanked him for his support.

While he will be missed on the football field, sports fans obviously hope for the best for Devon Still and his family.