Still in pain after grisly 2017 knee injury, Bears TE Zach Miller retires

Last week, Zach Miller said he wasn’t ready to retire yet, but it he was clear-eyed about the long odds to resume his playing career.

Tuesday, the Bears tight end made it official, retiring from the sport 537 days since dislocating his left knee catching a pass against the Saints. The dislocation cut the artery that delivered blood to his lower left leg. Only decisive medical care saved his leg from amputation. Nine surgeries since have improved his quality of life.

“To the city of Chicago, my beloved Bears fans and NFL fans everywhere … the time has come to move on from playing the game of football,” Miller wrote on Instagram. “It has been an incredible journey for myself and my entire family and we can’t thank you enough for your continued support.

“I would love more than anything to step on Soldier Field one last time but I physically cannot give the game and our fans what they deserve.”

Miller went on to thank Bears chairman George McCaskey, his teammates, coaches and fans.

The 34-year-old spent last season on the Bears’ Physically Unable to Perform list while he rehabilitated his leg. He caught 101 balls for 1,161 yards and 11 scores as a member of the Bears from 2014-17, and finishes his career with 146 catches for 1,631 yards and 15 touchdowns.

When Miller was given the team’s Ed Block Courage Award last week, he said that it still hurt to jog, and described his nerve issues as a “new normal.” He admitted he was lucky to be standing on two feet. And he vowed to make a decision soon.

“I can’t hold it hostage forever,” he said. “And I don’t plan to. But there are some things I need to try and do physically and see if it’s possible.”