Stampeders' Jon Cornish announces retirement

Calgary Stampeders running back Jon Cornish announced his retirement from the CFL on Wednesday.

"I’m very comfortable with my decision," said Cornish. "Over the years with this team, I feel we’ve been able to achieve everything that is possible to achieve both as a team and as an individual."

Cornish captured two Grey Cup rings and won the CFL Most Outstanding Player Award in 2013. He finishes his career fourth all time on the Stampeders rushing list.

"Jon was an exceptional player for this franchise and I congratulate him on an excellent career," said Stampeders general manager John Hufnagel, who was head coach for eight of Cornish’s nine seasons in Calgary. "He earned his dues early in his career with hard work and commitment on special teams while gradually earning more playing time on offence. After he became the starter, he developed into one of the best running backs in the history of this franchise and this league."

The 2013 campaign was Cornish's most memorable, as he ran for 1,813 yards and totalled more than 2,100 yards from scrimmage. In addition to being named MOP, Cornish's efforts earned him the Lou Marsh Award as Canada's top athlete.

"My appreciation to the league, the Calgary Stampeders, to the media and to the fans can not be overstated," said Cornish. "I’ve been humbled by the magnitude of what this sport means to people in this country."