Pittsburgh, PA – June 19, 2025
Three years after shocking the NFL world with his early retirement, former Steelers defensive end Stephon Tuitt has finally opened up about the pain behind his decision—and the truth has left fans in Pittsburgh reeling.
Speaking on 93.7 The Fan in a rare and emotional interview, Tuitt shared what had remained unspoken since his abrupt departure in 2022. “I spent my entire career with the Steelers,” he began. “By then, I was on the downslope, got plenty of offers, but I didn’t want to play for another team and face Pittsburgh as an opponent.”
But behind that loyalty was a deeper wound.
In June 2021, Tuitt’s younger brother Richard was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident. Just days later, Tuitt suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2021 season. “Losing Richard broke me,” Tuitt confessed, his voice trembling. “Football wasn’t the same after that.”
Despite coming off a dominant 2020 campaign with 11 sacks, Tuitt knew he couldn’t continue. The grief and physical toll weighed too heavy. “I gave Pittsburgh everything,” he said, pausing to hold back tears.
During his eight-year career, Tuitt recorded 34.5 sacks, 43 tackles for loss, and 106 quarterback hits across 91 games, per Pro-Football-Reference.com. Alongside Cameron Heyward, he helped anchor one of the league’s fiercest defensive lines, earning a reputation for relentless motor and quiet toughness. His 3.5-sack performance against the Ravens in 2019 remains a fan favorite highlight.
Reactions from Steelers Nation have been emotional. “Tuitt was a warrior. Miss him every Sunday,” wrote @SteelerFanatic on X. Another added, “He left too soon, but his loyalty’s unmatched. Still hurts.”
Now 32, Tuitt has turned the page. He resides in Pittsburgh, working in real estate and supporting local youth programs in honor of his late brother. “I’m at peace,” he said, “but yeah... I wish I could’ve won a ring for this city.”
As the Steelers gear up for a title run with Aaron Rodgers and T.J. Watt leading the charge, Tuitt’s legacy remains a powerful reminder of what it means to give everything—and then walk away with dignity.
