Hillis Leaves NFL; Will Iikely Pursue Coaching Career Video

In seven NFL seasons former Razorback Peyton Hillis cracked helmets with some of the top tacklers in pro football. After suffering multiple concussions Hillis got some bad news this summer from his doctors.

"I had a really bad concussion last year." Hillis said. "I still had a couple of years on my contract. It was one of those things where it hurt a little bit to hear that news but you just have to go with it. I had a pretty significant injury. I thought it was time to hang it up."

In spite of the bad news Hillis said he doesn't have any regrets and has nothing but positive things to say about his time in pro football.

"Nobody is forcing us to do it," Hillis observed. "We go out there and we do the best that we can but you know, this is a great game. I really enjoyed my ride. I'm very blessed. I've been in the league a lot longer than most people have dreamed of. I gives thanks to God for that."

Hillis recently participated in a summer youth football camp with several other former Razorbacks including Dallas running back Darren McFadden. The two played in the same backfield at Arkansas. D-Mac admitted it was tough to watch Hillis leave the NFL.

"He's a great guy. I loved playing ball with him," McFadden told reporters. "I hate to see that. Concussions, they're a big deal and it's something that's very serious. He's a smart guy. He knows what he needs to do for his health and and his future."

Washington Redskins rookie Martrell Spaight, also a former Hog, said Hillis' situation hit home with him as prepares for his first year in pro football.

"I know they say the NFL's not for long," Spaight stressed, "so every day out there on the field just go play and practice like it's your last go-round. So just make the most of everything."

Hillis has moved his family from Tennessee to Northwest Arkansas where he will finish up his college degree and do some volunteer coaching before trying making a career out of it.

"I just love being around kids and I've always thought I could help out in that area, especially around football," Hillis affirmed. "So it's just something I'm looking forward to."

What advice would Hillis give to Spaight?

"He needs patience," Hillis answered, "and have a great attitude because coming into something it's like anything else. You're going to hit a lot of bumps before you can get where you want to be. I think he'll do a great job. He seems like he has a level head so I expect good things from him."









