Former No. 1 pick Ben Heenan retires

Ben Heenan is calling it a career.

The 26-year-old released a statement through his agent Thursday, announcing his retirement.

"My achievements in football simply would not have happened without the outstanding people I have had in my corner, and I will be forever grateful to everyone who helped me play the game for as long as I did," Heenan said. "I look forward to seeing what life has to offer after football."

A former first overall pick by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2012, Heenan helped the Green Riders to a Grey Cup in 2013. He joined the Indianapolis Colts of the NFL in 2015, but was released in August after suffering a knee injury. The Colts re-signed him to the practice squad in January.

"I've always been told that when it's over all you have left are friends and memories - I'm happy to be able to leave the game with plenty of both," Heenan added.