Boldin announces retirement: 'My life's purpose is bigger than football'

Veteran receiver Anquan Boldin left the Buffalo Bills and has decided to retire, according to a statement via ESPN's Jim Trotter.

Football in its purest form is what we all strive for as a nation. People from all different races, religions and backgrounds working together for one shared goal. The core values taught in football are some of the most important you can learn in life. To always be there for the guy next to you and not let your fellow man down. You do whatever it takes to make sure your brother is OK.

Football has afforded me a platform throughout my career to have a greater impact on my humanitarian work. At this time, I feel drawn to make the larger fight for human rights a priority. My life's purpose is bigger than football.

Boldin, a three-time Pro Bowler, signed a one-year deal with the Bills on Aug. 7 and was expected to start after the team traded away Sammy Watkins, but suited up for just one preseason game.

Boldin played 14 seasons in the NFL split between the Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens, San Francisco 49ers, and Detroit Lions. He went over 1,000 receiving yards in seven different campaigns and won a Super Bowl with the Ravens. The 36-year-old was named Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2003 and won the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2015.

Boldin also holds career records for the fastest player to 300, 400, and 500 receptions, along with the rookie record for catches in a season (101). He finishes his career with 1,076 catches (ninth-most all time) for 13,779 yards and 82 touchdowns.