:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65117945/usa_today_11947561.0.jpg)
With Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck abruptly retiring this past weekend, it’s important to look at not only what his former teammates and fans thought of him—but what the players he competed against did every Sunday.
While fans and teammates are almost obligated to love you—much like a sibling, opponents are not, and that is perhaps the most telling sign of how truly respected a player really is.
So for proper perspective, without further ado:
(Also, if there are some other active players I missed, please let me know as I’ll update it from the comments.)
An incredible competitor and a truly great person. I’ll miss competing against a guy who always played the game extremely hard, with an immense amount of respect. Wishing Andrew nothing but the absolute best moving forward. I know this had to be unbelievably difficult decision. pic.twitter.com/jgMHwJvPxo
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) August 25, 2019
Wishing Andrew nothing but the best in this transition...whatever you decide to do, let your boy Fitz know, because I know it will be big.
— Larry Fitzgerald (@LarryFitzgerald) August 25, 2019
If you’re looking to use architecture degree, let’s collaborate on something
Big Respect to Andrew Luck gonna miss competing against ya . ✊
— Chris Harris (@ChrisHarrisJr) August 25, 2019
How you gonna boo Andrew Luck? The nicest person I’ve ever played against. It was a pleasure competing against him in college and the NFL!
— T.J. Ward (@BossWard43) August 25, 2019
Thank you Drew for everything you gave this game! You are an amazing teammate and an even better friend. Wish you nothing but the best in your next endeavor. I know you will be even greater in your next chapter
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) August 25, 2019
Russell Wilson's reaction to the retirement of Andrew Luck pic.twitter.com/7OYQ9DAJlY
— Sam HawkBadger (@hwkbgr) August 25, 2019
Aaron Rodgers with a lengthy, strong defense of a “selfless” Andrew Luck:
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) August 26, 2019
“I thought it would’ve been more of a standing ovation type thing and a thank you than boos.” pic.twitter.com/GbZm3qCd0u
#Patriots QB Tom Brady to @TheGregHillShow on Andrew Luck’s retirement: “It is his life. Everyone has the right to choose what he wants to do.” ... “He had a great career and he was a great player” https://t.co/24zs260g4k
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 26, 2019
Mariota on Andrew Luck. #Titans #Colts pic.twitter.com/qMKqfMqq7Q
— Paul Kuharsky (@PaulKuharskyNFL) August 26, 2019
Let’s show respect & take our hats off for Andrew Luck. We don’t know what he’s going through. He’s confident & at peace about his decision. Congratulations on a helluva career my guy. #FlipPhone Luv!
— Jamal Adams (@TheAdamsEra) August 25, 2019
Patrick Mahomes on Andrew Luck retiring: "I know that he's going to make the right decision for himself and his family for sure." #Chiefs #AndrewLuckRetirement pic.twitter.com/keU5tF1DEq
— Kristen Carver (@NPNowCarver) August 25, 2019
Drew Brees on Andrew Luck retiring from the NFL #Saints pic.twitter.com/nqYxiBr48v
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) August 25, 2019
Good Andrew Luck anecdote from Zach Ertz on their time together at Stanford. pic.twitter.com/8x18YUgtlF
— Tim McManus (@Tim_McManus) August 25, 2019