CALGARY — Calgary Stampeders linebacker Deron Mayo is calling it a career, the team announced Tuesday, retiring after six CFL seasons.

Mayo spent his entire career with the Stamps, tallying 277 career tackles in 87 games.

“After 18 months of rehab and many setbacks along the way, I feel that it’s in my family’s best interest to walk away and focus on life after football,” said Mayo. “I am grateful to all who have helped me along the way and for those who continue to motivate me throughout this process.”

Mayo was a member of Calgary’s Grey Cup-winning team in 2014. The 29-year-old Old Dominion product also had 33 special teams tackles, 14 sacks, one interception, one forced fumble, six fumble recoveries and 11 knockdowns.

In 2016, Mayo served as a team captain and was voted by his teammates as the Presidents’ Ring winner for demonstrating excellence on and off the field. In 2015, he was the Stamps’ nominee for Most Outstanding Defensive Player. Mayo originally signed with the Stampeders in 2012.

“I thank Deron for everything he has done for the Stampeders on and off the field over the course of his career,” said Stampeders president and general manager John Hufnagel. “He was a very good player for us – he was an important part of our defence and a strong leader in the locker room. He also showed his commitment to the city by remaining in Calgary year round and giving back to the community. I wish him, his wife Janelle and their daughter Maliya all the best in the future.”

“I would like to thank the Stampeders organization, my teammates and our supporters for making Calgary feel like home these last six years,” added Mayo. “Professional football has provided my family with a foundation to build upon for the rest of my life. The perseverance, grit and discipline that I have learned from playing this game for well over a decade will fuel my success in the coming years. Thanks and God Bless.”