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TE John Carlson explains abrupt retirement, cites passion, family

It was a bit of a surprise when it was announced veteran Arizona Cardinals tight end John Carlson had retired from the NFL. There was no real explanation and it put the Cards in a tough spot at the position, leaving them with almost zero experience. The lack of a veteran presence has led the team to even reach out to a player like Chris Cooley, who hasn't played at all since 2012 and hasn't played significant snaps since 2010.

The Star Tribune in Minnesota had a story on Carlson and his retirement, as he was a former Viking.