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Vinatieri failed to talk McAfee out of retirement

Dale Zanine / Action Images

Indianapolis Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri is still trying to comprehend Pat McAfee's retirement.

McAfee earned Pro Bowl honors for the second time in his career but abruptly retired at the end of the year in order to join Barstool Sports. The punter also said a series of knee surgeries heavily factored into his decision.

Vinatieri, who completed his 21st professional season, tried to coerce McAfee out of retirement to no avail.

"I tried to talk him out of it," Vinatieri said via Alex Marvez of Sporting News. "I said, 'Man, do both (football and comedy). You're so good at punting. We need you. I need you.' That was selfish of me to even say that because whatever he wants to do - and I know he's going to be so successful at this - I'm excited for him.

"I just miss him. I talked to him (Tuesday) and I was like, ‘Man, are you sure? It's not the same without you, buddy.'"

Although Vinatieri is still hurting from McAfee's decision, the duo will remain friends, as the Colts look to fill an unexpected void this spring.

"I wish him all the success in the world," Vinatieri said. “I love him like a brother. I'm sure he's going to do great.

"It's not the same not having him around. And like I told him, the true people aren't going to know how badly we miss you until you're gone."

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