Buccaneers Cornerback C.J. Wilson Stepping Away from NFL

In what has turned into a devastating situation, Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback C.J. Wilson announced he will be taking a “hiatus” from playing football. The 25-year old has undergone multiple surgeries following a July 4th accident, which resulted in the loss of two of his fingers. The Bucs officially placed Wilson on their retired/reserve list, effectively allowing Wilson to end his career.

According to Wilsons’ father, C.J. lost both his index and middle fingers on one hand when a canister that contained fireworks exploded while he was holding it. Wilson reportedly underwent multiple surgeries after the accident, resulting in the amputation of his fingers.

Te Buccaneers and General Manager Jason Licht released a statement expressing their support for Wilson:

"“We know this process has been difficult for C.J. and respect his decision to step away from football. We are grateful for the contributions he has made to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and wish him the best as he focuses on his health and recovery.”"

Wilson signed with the Bucaneers for their final two games of the 2014 season. The sophomore defensive back will sadly step away from the game with only five career tackles. While at North Carolina State, he played four seasons, completing 71 tackles and 4 interceptions for the Wolfpack.

Wilson previously spent time with the Bears, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of North Carolina State in 2013.

Unfortunately, Wilson was not the only NFL player injured by fireworks on July 4th. The New York Giants’ Jason Pierre-Paul missed out on a major contract extension after loosing one of his fingers in a firework accident. The lineman has said he plans on continuing his NFL career post-amputation.

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