Oct 23, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Buffalo Bills strong safety Aaron Williams (23) is helped off the field after being injured in the game against the Miami Dolphins during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Williams would understandably like to continue playing for the Buffalo Bills, but his recent comments indicate he realizes it’s time to step away.

It’s fair to say the majority of professional footballers find it tough to walk away from the game. Combined with the fact the average career lasts around three years, it’s no wonder they want to play as long as possible.

In that respect, Aaron Williams is currently struggling with a decision which should theoretically be straight forward. He can either retire now, or continue playing and risk his long-term health.

Williams’ issues started in Week 2 of the 2015 season, when he suffered a neck injury against the New England Patriots. After laying motionless for what felt like an eternity, he was taken off the field in an ambulance.

The 26-year old attempted to return to action three weeks later, before being ruled out for the rest of the season. Already, his family were putting pressure on him to walk away from the game – while he still could.

A reminder of what Williams was risking, came during training camp for the Buffalo Bills, when he was involved in a full speed, blind collision with teammate Dez Lewis. It transpired that he had suffered a concussion rather than a further neck injury, but it could still be construed as a warning.

A second reminder came during the 2016 campaign, against the Miami Dolphins. The San José, California native was the recipient of a controversial hit to the head by Jarvis Landry, which again ended his season prematurely.

At the time his father, Anthony Williams, advised no immediate decision would be made about his future. Speaking to The Associated Press, Williams’ father said: “We’ll wait to talk about that at the end of the season as a family, and we’ll pray about it and make the best decision that’s right for him.”

Asked again about his future after the season, the 2011 second round draft pick admitted his family want him to retire. Speaking to Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News and the rest of the media, he said: “They gave me their honest opinion – they think that it’s time to step away.

“I can understand where they’re coming from, and how they see that. They see me go off on an ambulance twice in two years now.”

Even close friend and former teammate Fred Jackson has advised him to retire: “He’s like my parents. He’s like, ‘Man, I think it’s time to step away.'”

The more Williams spoke, the more he sounded like a man resigned to what he will have to do. At one point he even had to stop talking, to compose himself.

The strong safety said: “Before, I hated talking to you guys. I absolutely did. But now it’s one of those things I’m going to miss.

“I love my teammates, I love my coaches. I love my owners — they are exceptional to this team, so we’ll see where it takes us.

“I wouldn’t say I’m at peace with it, but reality is hitting. I don’t think I’ll ever be at peace when the day comes when football ends, because it’s in my DNA.”

It is worth noting that Doctors have cleared Williams to continue playing, but he realizes he has to now look at the bigger picture. Additionally, money is no issue, with his five-year deal in 2014 including $14.625 million guaranteed.

Ultimately, the former Texas Longhorn has to consider the quality of his life post-football. Being able to walk and lead a relatively healthy life are more important than playing football, no matter how much you love the game.

Taking everything into account, what’s your opinion regarding Williams? Do you think he should retire or not, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.