An NFL star is getting ready to hang up his cleats and pick up his Bible to preach the Good News.

Stefen Wisniewski was an offensive lineman with the Kansas City Chiefs, winning a Super Bowl championship with the team in 2019. He also won a championship ring with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2017.

“The absolute best part of my life is my relationship with Jesus Christ and I can’t imagine a better full-time job than teaching people the Bible and sharing the love of Christ with others.”

In an announcement on his Twitter Thursday afternoon, Wisniewski says it was time to step away from the game he loves.

“I absolutely loved playing the game of football, but after 10 years, my body, my mind and my heart are telling me it’s time to move on,” he says in the video.


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But some might say his true calling in life is just beginning. “What am I going to do next? I’m going to be a pastor,” he says.

“The absolute best part of my life is my relationship with Jesus Christ and I can’t imagine a better full-time job than teaching people the Bible and sharing the love of Christ with others.”

In a follow-up statement posted to his account, he took the time to thank people in his life who supported him throughout his playing career. He also thanked God and Jesus in the statement.

"I have had a truly blessed career, and though things didn't always go exactly how I might've planned, I wouldn't change a thing, for I believe God used the trials to shape me into a tougher, wiser, stronger, more humble man of God," he says.

In his letter, he thanks "Jesus Christ, King of the Universe and my life: You were my strength, joy, purpose, anchor, life, peace, and passion through it all. I only made it through the tough times because of Your presence and because of the promises in Your Word."

The 6' 3", 305 lbs lineman says that not even two Super Bowls could compare to knowing Jesus. "And the intense joy from knowing You far surpasses any joy that came from even the best parts of the game of football. And any and all glory that people try to give to me for what I've accomplished truly belongs to you."

He also thanked his wife and family, as well as former teammates, coaches, and fans.

Wisniewski references Romans 11:36 in this letter, which says, "For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen" (NIV).

He played a total of 10 years in the National Football League.