Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Telvin Smith says he will not play football in 2019.

Smith, a five-year veteran, is coming off a season where he had a career-high 134 tackles.

However, in an Instagram post, Smith said he wants to take some time “away from the game.” Smith did not say he plans to retire.

“It was said to me from a great coach that in order for the man to be his best, he must get his world in order. At this time I must take time away from this game and get my world in order,” Smith wrote. “I must give this time back to myself, my family and my health. I appreciate all the support I will and will not get. I just ask y’all to respect my decision to not play football this season.”

In a statement, the team said it has not yet spoken to Smith about the situation.

“We will not have a comment about Telvin Smith’s statement at this time. We need to have a conversation with Telvin to understand the situation and the circumstances,” the statement said.

“If there is a way we can support him we need to understand that.”

Smith was chosen in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL draft by the Jaguars and has played his whole career with the franchise.

Over that five-year span, he has been a staple of their defense, accumulating a whopping 586 tackles, 7.5 sacks and nine interceptions.

He has had at least 100 tackles in all five of his professional seasons.

Maybe he needs a year away. 

Taking hits to head can take a toll on anyone. 

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