Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman has ruled out retirement after suffering a torn triceps for the second time in 10 months.
The 33-year-old released a statement on Monday after being placed on the season-ending injured reserve list after he suffered the setback during the win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night.
"I appreciate the kind words of encouragement and support from all the Bears fans who have reached out to me. I know this feeling way too well, but this isn't the end of the road for me," Tillman said, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
"As I rehab my injury, my role will transition to helping coach and support my teammates. I will be at Halas Hall and do everything I can to help our team reach its goals."
Coach Marc Trestman believes the cornerback was set for a third Pro Bowl season prior to the injury, which suggests that the franchise will be hopeful of seeing the veteran back in action next season.
Meanwhile, defensive end Jared Allen revealed that Tillman was one of the reasons why he joined the franchise this summer, and he expects to miss his presence on the field.